Scripture:
Mark 9:35 – And he sat down and called the twelve. And he said to them, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.”
Observation:
The disciples, who were yet to fully understand the Kingdom of God, were arguing about who was the greatest. Jesus tells the disciples that the one who puts all others before him and serves would be greatest. This is 180 degrees counter culture from the political and religious hierarchy of the day where to leadership was synonymous with power.
Application:
Throughout his life and ministry, Jesus gave us the perfect model of how to be a servant leader. This type of service before self still is contrary to human nature and is not possible without the gospel and the power of the Holy Spirit. I must be humble not prideful in order to be a servant leader. Although, to the world this may look like weakness, humility in service following Jesus is a powerful expression of the life of a disciple of Christ.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for your sending Jesus as our servant leader and savior to all who believe. Help me live a life of humility to put others first and serve in a way that points to you.