“For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.”
(Mark 10:35)
Jesus is trying to prepare his disciples for what is about to happen. He tries to tell them about their final journey to Jerusalem and about his death, but they just can’t seem to grasp what he says. James and John, in the immediate aftermath of Jesus’ stunning words of crucifixion and resurrection, press him to allow them to be at his right and left hand when he comes into his kingdom. We marvel at their arrogance and insensitivity, and yet, their questions are really ours. We like to be special treatment, to find ourselves at the front of the line or in places of recognition and honor.
Jesus said that he did not come to be served but to serve, ultimately giving himself fully for others. His example countered the argumentative, self-centered approach of the disciples with an authentic picture of servanthood. It isn’t a rush to be first in line or to grab a position of authority and lord it over others. Jesus called his followers to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow. Bearing the weight of that cross diverts our attention away from our petty self-interests, calling us to trace and then follow the footprints of the Servant, Jesus, the Christ.
Prayer: Forgive our selfish ways and help us, Lord, to willingly embrace the cross of Christ, and in doing so, to serve. Amen.
Jim Abernathy
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