Tag: life giving
Week 12–Day 1–Greatness Through Serving
Scripture reading for March 16: Mark 10:42-45 “And Jesus called them to Him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.””
Among the twelve disciples that Jesus had selected, there arose a dispute among them about who was the greatest of the group. James and John had sought out Jesus and asked Him for seats of honor when He came into His promised kingdom. Jesus stated that they did not know what they were asking. He asked them if they were able to drink the cup that He would drink and be baptized with His baptism? They confidently responded “we are able.” This upset the other disciples and Jesus stepped in with a word of wisdom that applied to them and us all.
Jesus taught them that in the world the Gentile rulers would lord it over those under their authority. They would demand tribute and respect, sometimes using force. But in God’s eternal kingdom, there was a different path to greatness. This path was one of humble service and those desiring greatness in God’s kingdom must become servants, even slaves, of others. Jesus, Himself, although King of kings, by example humbled Himself and took the form of a servant who actually gave His life as a ransom for many! It was because of this, that God highly exalted Him to the highest place. (Philippians 2:9-11)
As first responder, we are called to serve others. According to Jesus, this is a path to greatness in His kingdom! Even the small tasks that we do to help the hurting and weak are noticed by Him and reflect His heart to help the weak and hurting. Let’s remember our Lord’s call to greatness through serving!
Prayer: Father God, thank You for sending Jesus as a humble example of true greatness. Use me as I respond each day to reflect Your humble attitude of a servant to all who need assistance. May I always put You first and others before myself. Open doors for me to share Your serving love. Amen.