Rather to serve

James and John (Mark 10) and the other disciples are distracted by shortcuts to power and prestige. They want to benefit from being close to Jesus. They are focused on personal power rather than love of neighbor.

Jesus responds (v. 43), “But it is not so among you.” True relationships driven by sacrificial love are characterized by humble service. In their confusion, Jesus points back to himself. Rather than seeking advantage or prestige—the Son of Man came to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many. In the world according to Jesus, true greatness is service and will lead to suffering in love. Supersized egos are not terribly helpful for the common good, certainly not in the reign of God.

The great are those who share generously, who squander their life in beautiful, faithful love. The Lord’s servant in Isaiah 53 faithfully serves, scattering their life energy for kindness and mercy, even unto death.

What does it mean to follow Jesus–God’s suffering servant?

Is it not to check out a story we hear before we assume it is true even if we want it to be true? Whether it be someone sitting on the other side of the sanctuary or a political candidate.

Is it not to assume the best about our siblings in Christ rather than forgetting that it is Jesus sitting over there, or serving on a committee, or stumbling in the dark?

Is it not to choose the path of suffering in love rather than insisting on personal right, ego, or privilege? Suffering is never good, but often—as with Jesus—it is the only path forward. Yet, love does not invite us to suffer quietly for someone else’s selfish or abusive behavior. There is a difference.

May we find joy in Jesus’ life of compassionate service, may we find salvation in his suffering love. Amen.