JESUS SPEAKING

     But Jesus called them to Himself and said, “You know that those who are considered rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them.  However, it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant.  And whoever desires to be first shall be slave of all.  For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” (Mark 10: 42 – 45)

FAITHFUL THOUGHTS

     As children we are taught that dominance is better than submission, and that a higher social status leads to a better life.  Many therefore seek to obtain positions of great power and authority.  Yet Christ’s teachings are often in direct opposition to such worldly principles. Those who follow Jesus must deny what they have been taught, in order to embrace the doctrines of genuine faith and divine humility. Only by abandoning the desire for greatness, can one completely and lovingly serve others. [Note: Those who are the greatest servants are often elevated into positions of great power and authority; in the church, in the home, or at work.]

     For years young men from across the country once flocked to the church where I was saved, seeking to begin a career in pastoral ministry. Many new hopefuls were initially referred to a pastor named Romain, who skillfully employed a special technique designed to separate the qualified from the unqualified.  As the prospects approached, he would hand them a broom and tell them to go sweep a portion of the church.  Although many were obedient, others felt insulted and became upset.  One common response sounded something like this, “I came here to be a pastor and to teach the bible, not to sweep floors.”  If such a retort was given, Pastor Romain knew that they did not have a servant’s heart; but instead they were seeking to acquire power and status.

     Those who follow the Son of God must give-up the desire for worldly greatness in order to pursue lowliness and humility.  Seeking to serve others rather than to be served, we become the men and women God has called us to be.  We can serve at home, in the community, at work, and in our church.  We can serve our family members, coworkers, friends, neighbors, and even complete strangers.  Only through selflessness and sacrifice can we be transformed into the image of our great Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.     

     “Lord Heavenly Father, inspire us to seek lowliness and humility.  May we hunger to love and serve others in sincerity and singleness of heart.  Provide us with opportunities to place the needs of our fellows ahead of our own, that we might be examples of Your great mercy and everlasting affection.  We love You Father, we praise You, and we thank You, and we ask and pray all of these things, according to Your will, in Jesus Christ’s name.  Amen.”  God bless all of you!