Encounter #36:

Who is the Greatest?

Read: Mark 9:30-37

Jesus told His disciples that He would have to suffer, be killed, but rise from the dead in three days. They did not understand what He said. They believed that the Messiah (the Son of Man) would rule over the Roman Empire; not be killed. But Jesus came first to die for our sins, and will come back again to rule and reign as the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

While they went into the house Jesus asked them about the argument that they just had among themselves. They were quiet. But Jesus knew that they were debating about who would be the greatest. Jesus gave the qualifications of greatness. They were to be “last of all,” not the “first of all.” And they were to be a servant of all. They were to volunteer to be a servant.

As an illustration, Jesus picked up a young child and put him in His arms. They were to be childlike, not childish. A child is innocent, teachable, simple, humble, loving and willing to serve. These characteristics are to be a part of our Christian character. How are we to receive Jesus? As a child. When we receive Jesus, we also receive His Father. Honoring Jesus is also honoring His Father, who sent Him.

Jesus came to serve and to minister. If we want to be the “greatest” in His Kingdom, then we must be willing to serve Him and one another.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, grant me the grace to serve others as Your Son did. To be like a child in humility and  in love. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Application: Ask the Holy Spirit to give you opportunities to serve others.

Encounter Jesus: As you serve others, you serve Jesus. You will encounter His love and power.