CREATING YOUR LIFE

CREATING YOUR LIFE

READ:
Mark 10:35-45

Whoever of you desires to
be first shall be slave of all.
-Mark 10:44

The advice that I read in a self-help book sounded good:  Do only what you're great at because that's when you'll feel most fulfilled.  The author was trying to help readers create the kind of life they wanted.  I don't know about you, but if I did only what I was great at, I wouldn't accomplish much!

In Mark 10, we read about two disciples, James and John, who had some plans for the kind of life they wanted for themselves someday.  They asked to be at Jesus' right and left hand in His kingdom (v.37).  The other 10 disciples were "greatly displeased" with them for asking (v.41).  (Possibly because that was the kind of position they wanted for themselves!).

But Jesus used the opportunity to teach His followers about another kind of life-one of serving others.  He said, "Whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant.  And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all" (vv.43-44).  It appears that service for others is God's design for us.

Even Jesus, the Son of God, "did not come to be served, but to serve" (v.45).  As we look at Christ's example and depend on the Holy Spirit's help, we too can be servants and will create a fulfilling life. -Anne Cetas

 I admit, Lord, that my eyes do get focused
on myself.  But I really do want to live from a heart of
love for You  Teach me to be a servant
and to look for my fulfillment in You.
********************************************
Great occasions for serving God come seldom,
but little ones surround us daily.

INSIGHT
Often the Bible is surprisingly frank in its portrayal of human weakness.  Today's passage shows James and John jockeying for position in the eternal kingdom.  Jesus teaches them that servant-hood, not political positioning, is the way to be exalted in the kingdom.

Have a blessed day.
God Our Creator's Love Always
Unity & Peace