The Greatest is a Servant

Mark 10:41 (NET) Now when the other ten heard this, they became angry with James and John. 42 Jesus called them and said to them, “You know that those who are recognized as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those in high positions use their authority over them. 43 But it is not this way among you. Instead whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Petty Jealousy in the Ranks

James and John tried to use their status as those closest to Jesus to gain an opportunity to rule with him in his kingdom. The other ten were angry. They were human. It was a part of their nature and ours to get jealous and angry when someone seeks to use his privileged status to gain an advantage.

We see that in full display in America today. Jealousy on the part of one group toward another for an assumed status or privilege. Lower class is jealous of upper class. One race jealous of another. One gender jealous of another. Poor jealous of rich. Uneducated jealous of the educated. There is no end to the jealousy and anger of one group or class against another.

The ten showed themselves human. Their anger shows they would have likely used their own advantages if they had thought of it first.

Jesus Pointed the Way to True Greatness

Instead of arbitrating the situation, Jesus taught the way to true greatness. It is through service. The one who offers the most and best service is the greatest.

The principle of greatness through service is true in most areas of life. The business offering the best service gets the most loyal customers. The man or woman who best serves his or her family finds greatness. The physician who best serves his patients is the most esteemed. The craftsman who gives his customers the best value is the most reputable.

Instead of seeking status, we would do well to seek to be a better servant. Service sets us apart. It is fulfilling. It is meaningful. It is the path to greatness.