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Mark 9:33-35
After they arrived at Capernaum and settled in a house, Jesus asked his disciples, “What were you discussing out on the road?” But they didn’t answer, because they had been arguing about which of them was the greatest. He sat down, called the twelve disciples over to him, and said, “Whoever wants to be first must take last place and be the servant of everyone else.” |
I smiled when reading this. The disciples got caught, and they knew it. I imagine them walking down this road having a lengthy discussion about who was going to accomplish the greatest things. Perhaps they were discussing who was the best leader, the best speaker, or the best writer. But based on Jesus' comment, the best servant was not on the list or even in their discussion. The reality is, it's hard to be the least. It goes against our natural human desire. It is only through the power of Christ, that we can overcome the desires of our flesh and walk in meekness and humility.
It was while walking through one of life's valleys that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" took on new meaning (Philippians 4:13). Up until that time, I had always read and viewed the verse as being able to accomplish something greater. It was always about doing more than I could in my own strength. But in the middle of that storm, there was also the realization that doing "all things" through Christ is sometimes about doing less. It is saying nothing when falsely accused (Matthew 27:14). It is blessing those who curse us (Luke 6:28). It is continually becoming less so that He becomes more (John 3:30).
Jesus, thank You for humbly coming to the Earth that You created! Thank you for coming to serve, and not to be served. Thank You for forgoing all of Heaven and willingly dying for us so that we can one day join You in Heaven! Thank you always leading us by example. Help us to walk in Your ways and become living examples of Your living love! We love You Lord! Amen
It was while walking through one of life's valleys that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" took on new meaning (Philippians 4:13). Up until that time, I had always read and viewed the verse as being able to accomplish something greater. It was always about doing more than I could in my own strength. But in the middle of that storm, there was also the realization that doing "all things" through Christ is sometimes about doing less. It is saying nothing when falsely accused (Matthew 27:14). It is blessing those who curse us (Luke 6:28). It is continually becoming less so that He becomes more (John 3:30).
Jesus, thank You for humbly coming to the Earth that You created! Thank you for coming to serve, and not to be served. Thank You for forgoing all of Heaven and willingly dying for us so that we can one day join You in Heaven! Thank you always leading us by example. Help us to walk in Your ways and become living examples of Your living love! We love You Lord! Amen