Servant Of All

The Last Shall Be First In The Kingdom of God

Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.” Mark 9:35

Who would like to be a servant to everyone? Practically no one would be my guess. Except, of course, those who are actually active in serving others. Those who have sincerely tried it find that serving others can be a most rewarding experience.

We've often heard that it is better to give than to receive. We often tell our children that just before the Christmas season. A gift given that is truly needed and appreciated will lift the giver's spirits as well as the spirits of the one who receives it.

Jesus' words that tell us that if we want to be first we must be last can be hard on the ego. But; if we listen to them, they will, in the end, bring much joy to our spirits. Though the Son of God most high, Jesus was willing to put himself at the very last. He was willing to give everything, even his very life that all people might live reconciled to God and to one another. He was willing to be beaten and hung on that cross so that you and I and all who would believe in him might receive eternal life. What greater gift can one give.

Jesus, was willing to serve us at the cost of his life. He was willing to be last for our sakes. Are we willing to be last in order that others might reap the benefits of our service; that others might come to know the loving gift of life in Jesus Christ, our Lord?

God's Peace - Pr. J.