“whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 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.”    Mark 10 : 43 - 45

Bible reading : Mark 10 : 35 - 45

Thought for the week

Our Gospel reading features regularly in our cycle of readings. James and John are asking for the best seats in heaven. It is a lesson in humility. How the path to glory for Jesus was also the path of suffering and unimaginable sacrifice. It is about learning the calling of service. Laying aside our desires. Knowing the Lord’s plans are so much bigger than our own.

Maybe this reading recurs so often because it is such an important lesson for us as disciples to learn. Humility. Trust. Obedience.

This week our nation is reeling from the terrible stabbing of a dedicated MP carrying out his business as a servant and friend to many.

The Archbishop of Canterbury has written, “"The only antidote to violence and hatred is love and unity. In this horrific and tragic moment we must come together, across political difference, and be the light that refuses to be cowed by darkness”.

It is only through faith, through service, through obedience to the Gospel that change truly comes. We are called to mourn, to pray, and trust in the Lord whose love is endless and always brings hope and new Life.

Rev Paul

Prayer

God, the giver of life, whose Holy Spirit wells up within your Church:

by the Spirit’s gifts equip us to live the gospel of Christ and make us eager to do your will,

that we may share with the whole creation the joys of eternal life;

through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,

Amen