Reflection: Sunday 17th October and for the week ahead:
Scripture:
But whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all. For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many. (Mark 10:43b-45)Reflection:
Jesus’ words are as counter-cultural now as they were then. Being a “Servant” is not something we strive for. Being a “slave” has a very powerful and negative connotation! So how do the words apply to us?
Let’s not get caught up in the evocative nature of the words, but think about the “big picture” that Jesus is trying to get us to see. What does a servant do? They help provide for the needs of others. But not just provide when asked, they are alert to the needs of those they are serving. They are watchful and anticipate what might be required; and are ready to act, to help, to assist.
Jesus is calling his disciples to love and to serve “all”; not just our friends and family; not just the people we like; not just the people who are like us……but “all” people.
That is the way greatness in God’s kingdom is measured.
Revd David