1st Place: Last of all and servant of all

Here are the youversion notes from this morning's sermon.

Being the Greatest

Mark 9:33-37 NIV
They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, "What were you arguing about on the road?" But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest. Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, "Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all." He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, "Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me."

The Only Way Up is Down

Perhaps not the best title, as the last thing I want is to give the impression that in order to be great in God's eyes that we must miss out. In fact I think quite the opposite is true. We become receipients of God's blessings when we adopt a servant heart, not for recognition or praise by others but simply because of our relationship with God and our desire to be Christlike. Can you recall a time when you found yourself arguing with someone over something trivial? Perhaps even at the time it seemed important enough for you to stand your ground but as you look back, was it really worth it? The disciples found themselves in an embarrassing situation when Jesus asked them what they were discussing during the journey. Jesus says, "Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all." We must serve others, not out of a self-righteous agenda but one of true service. Not to receive a pat on the back but because we are motivated by the love of Christ. Jesus uses the example of the child. Children were seen as unimportant, socially. Jesus teaches us that even the un-educated, even the people on the fringes, the people who suck up so much of our energy, even they are important to God. Are you willing to be a servant? If any leader is going to be successful I think they must first learn to serve. Rick Warren notes the mark of spiritual maturity occurs when a believer "takes off the bib and puts on an apron." Immature children wear bibs and expect others to meet their needs. Those who don aprons have learned the joy of serving others. Which attire are you wearing? Let your light shine!

My Copious Notes

It's not about me! I'm not here to get a pat on the back (although I will accept any praise or compliments about my crafting).

True service means shining our light for anyone, no matter what their status, being a servant to all, not expecting anything in return.

May God bless you richly this week.

Richard.