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, NIV)
Jesus sat down and called the twelve apostles to Him. He said, “Whoever wants to be the most important must make others more important than themselves. The must serve everyone else.” – (Mark 9:35, ERV)
He sat down and summoned the Twelve. “So you want first place? Then take the last place. Be the servant of all.” – (Mark 9:35, MSG)
Jesus not only told His disciples how to live, but He modeled it for them continuously. Instead of getting caught up in our own head, we need to look outward and discover how we can help, love and prefer one another as Jesus does for us all. Though Jesus was the Son of God, He came to seek and save the lost, to serve and help and heal, and ultimately, to lay down His life for ours. As we seek the Lord to lead and guide us, He shows us how to love and serve those around us. May we ever keep our eyes, ears and hearts open so that we may serve those around us in love.
We each have been called,
to love each other;
to help, give and serve,
sisters and brothers.
We’re not to promote,
ourselves to the top;
instead, boost others,
so selfishness stops.
For as we choose love,
we begin to see;
through Christ’s loving lens,
that sets people free.
Help us, Lord Jesus,
to be otherly;
so all come to know,
Your love graciously.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You sent Your Son to show us what it is to prefer one another in love. Thank You that as we seek You, You show us more and more how to live out Your love. Forgive us for the times that our own selfish ambition or desires have gotten in the way of loving as You intended us to love. Teach us to seek You to lead and guide us in all things. Show us how to love one another in a way that lifts others up. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we seek You to lead us in loving one another as we lift up, encourage, and build each other up. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present
Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. – Romans 12:10