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Serve – Part 1

Scripture Reading: Mark 10:41-45

Key verse: Mark 10:45

For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Success feels good to all of us.  As Christ followers we know God deserves the glory and it is important to acknowledge Him in our successes.  The more important question is in what will we put our efforts to succeed?  If we choose the Life Path described in the Bible, we will soon realize that success, in God’s view, is not achieved by being served by other people.  Success, in biblical terms, comes by serving others.  It is the servant that goes to the “head of the table.”

            Jesus realized the disciples were not really getting this concept.  James and John came to Jesus requesting to sit at the honored positions when Jesus came into His glory at the end of the age.  Rather than being upset with them, Jesus simply used this moment as a teaching opportunity.  He pointed out a contrasting picture using the high officials in the gentile world.  These rulers lorded over the common people—exercising their authority in egotistical ways.  Then Jesus draws the contrast: Not so with you!  (Whoever wants to become great (successful) in God’s view must become a servant.  Jesus reminded them that even He did not come to be served, but to serve.

            We must start each day with a servant attitude.  As Christ followers, we seek to model our leader—not demanding to be served but to serve.  Let’s look for ways to serve others today wherever life takes us!

Father, please remind me to be a servant today.  I want to imitate the One who gave His all for me.  In Jesus’ name, amen.