Devotion:
Read Mark 10:35-45.
What a bold request James and John make in this scripture to sit beside Jesus in his glory and reign with him. Jesus’ life on earth was only days away as the crucifixion was near. Who would be brave enough to ask Jesus what James and John asked? They wanted the premier seats!
Could it be that they forgot what Jesus was demonstrating, that the path to greatness requires service? I believe that they wanted to be served and have power, status, and privilege. James and John envisioned being served like royalty. But that would not be the path for them. They would suffer for following Jesus.
The words that Jesus uses in this scripture are the theme verses of the book of Mark. They demonstrate why Jesus came to live among us. He didn’t come for greatness; he came to give his life for us. Serving others was his mission. Other people always came first for Jesus. His service ended at the cross, where he showed his greatest love in laying down his life for us.
Do you find it hard to serve others and to consider others’ needs before your own? How and where is God calling you to serve? Whom is he calling you to serve? It could be someone in your family, at work, at school, or in your community? When we’re tempted to look for greatness, we need to focus on Jesus and remember how he served. Then we need to be willing to step out for others.
Personal Worship Option:
Dear God, when we’re tempted to want to be great in the eyes of others, steer our eyes back to Jesus, where we see the great Son of God serving us through his death. Help us live into his image, we pray. Amen.
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