We love success
stories…rags to riches stories, underdog champions. A couple of months ago I
heard the story of a breast cancer survivor, who by God’s grace, became the
world’s #2 triathlete! There were many a wet-eye in the house as she told her
story. (By the way if you would like to listen to Karen Newman’s story click
this link http://vimeo.com/62527108 and
type in the password (Newman31313).
Success, climbing up the
ladder, working to be the best we can be, these stories drive us and motivate
us.
So it shouldn’t surprise us
that two of the disciples asked to be given the places of recognition and honor
in Jesus’ kingdom. They wanted to be recognized as the “best” disciples! If we
are honest, we get it. We may question their method and if they deserve the
honor, but wanting the honor… that most of us
understand.
Where Jesus creates the
twist is His explanation of how we climb the ‘ladder of success’ in His kingdom.
In His kingdom, success is not measured by world standards of prestige, titles,
honor, success or fame. In Jesus’ kingdom, success is measured in the amount of
selfless service a person gives. You know that the rulers of the Gentiles
lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so
with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant,
and whoever wants to be first must be your slave
(25-27).
What I find interesting, as
I listen to Jesus, is that He never once corrects the disciples desire to be the
best or to be great in the kingdom. Implicitly He says, “Go for it. Work at it.
Strive to be the best. Just understand to be the best in My kingdom is all about
service and sacrifice.”
So go for it, folks, seek
to be the best ‘kingdom-worker’ you can possibly
be…
Lord, take my
natural motivation and desire to be the best and help me channel it toward the
kingdom things that honor You and serve others in Your name.
Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment