In Mark 10:35-45, James and John request to sit at Jesus’ right and left hand in His glory, reflecting their desire for positions of power. Jesus uses this moment to redefine greatness, teaching that true greatness in His Kingdom comes through service and sacrifice. This passage challenges our worldly views of power and invites us to embrace a life of humble service. This devotional explores how we can pursue true greatness by serving others as Jesus did.
Scripture Reading:
“James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to him, saying, ‘Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we shall ask.’ He said to them, ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ They said to him, ‘Grant to us that we may sit, one on your right hand, and one on your left hand, in your glory.’ But Jesus said to them, ‘You don’t know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?’ They said to him, ‘We are able.’ Jesus said to them, ‘You shall indeed drink the cup that I drink, and you shall be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with; but to sit on my right hand and on my left hand is not mine to give, but it is for whom it has been prepared.’ When the ten heard it, they began to be indignant towards James and John. Jesus called them to himself and said to them, ‘You know that those who are considered rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever wants to become great among you shall be your servant. Whoever of you wants to become first among you, shall be servant of all. For the Son of Man also came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.’” — Mark 10:35-45 (WEBBE)
Reflection: In this passage, James and John’s request for positions of honor highlights a common human desire for recognition and power. Jesus’ response shifts the focus from seeking prestige to understanding the nature of true greatness in His Kingdom. He emphasizes that greatness is not about authority or status, but about serving others selflessly.
Jesus challenges the disciples’ understanding of leadership by contrasting worldly notions of power with the values of His Kingdom. In the world, leaders often assert their authority, but Jesus calls His followers to a different standard: to lead through service and sacrifice. He redefines greatness by showing that the highest calling is to serve others, just as He Himself came to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many.
This teaching invites us to reflect on our own ambitions and how they align with Jesus’ model of greatness. Are we seeking to elevate ourselves, or are we committed to serving others with humility and love? True greatness in the Kingdom of God is measured by our willingness to put others first and to serve selflessly.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for redefining greatness and showing us the path of true leadership through service. Forgive us for the times we have sought power or recognition rather than serving others. Help us to embrace Your example of humility and selflessness, and to seek opportunities to serve those around us. Transform our hearts to reflect Your love and to live out our calling to serve others as You have served us. In Your name, Amen.
Action Plan:
- Serve Others: Look for practical ways to serve those around you, whether through acts of kindness, volunteering, or offering support. Make service a regular part of your daily life.
- Examine Ambitions: Reflect on your personal goals and ambitions. Consider how they align with Jesus’ teaching on greatness and adjust your focus towards serving others.
- Cultivate Humility: Practice humility in your interactions with others. Recognize opportunities to put others’ needs before your own and to lead by serving.
Thoughts for Contemplation:
- How can I better align my aspirations with the value of serving others as taught by Jesus?
- In what areas of my life might I be seeking recognition or authority rather than focusing on service?
- How can I incorporate more opportunities for service into my daily routine and relationships?
As you reflect on these questions, seek to embody the true greatness that comes from serving others, following Jesus’ example of humility and self-sacrifice.
The thing about hope is that it’s a positive force that shines the most when it’s dark. When everything’s going well, we hardly notice it’s there. But when things go against us, when our dreams fade and when we see no immediate reprieve from our troubles, that’s when hope does its best work for us.
"Where Hope Can Be Found"