Mark: A Walk With Our Savior (Day 44)

Read Mark 10:35-45
 
JESUS TEACHES ABOUT SERVING OTHERS
 
   The disciples, like most Jews of that day, had the wrong idea of the Messiah’s kingdom as predicted by the Old Testament prophets. They thought Jesus would establish an earthly kingdom that would free Israel from Rome’s oppression, and James and John wanted honored places in it. But Jesus’ kingdom is not of this world; it is not centered in palaces and thrones but in the hearts and lives of His followers. The disciples did not understand this until after Jesus’ resurrection. 
 
   James and John said they were willing to face any trial for Christ. Both did suffer: James died as a martyr (Acts 12), and John was forced to live in exile (Revelation 1). It is easy to say we will endure anything for Christ, and yet most of us complain about the most minor problems. We may say we are willing to suffer for Christ, but are we willing to suffer the minor irritations that sometimes com with serving others? 
Jesus didn’t ridicule James and John for asking, but He denied their request. We can feel free to ask God for anything, but our request may be denied. God wants to give us what is best for us, not merely what we want. He denies some requests for our own good. 
 
   Verse 45 reveals not only the motive for Jesus’ ministry but also the basis for our salvation. A ransom was the price paid to release a slave. Jesus paid a ransom for us because we could not pay it ourselves. His death released all of us from our slavery to sin. The disciples thought Jesus’ life and power would save them from Rome; Jesus said His death would save them from sin, an even greater slavery than Rome’s (1 Peter 1). 
 
   James and John wanted the highest positions in Jesus’ kingdom. But Jesus told them that true greatness comes in serving others. Peter, one of the disciples who had heard this message, expands this thought in 1 Peter 5:1-4. 
Businesses, organizations, and institutions measure greatness by personal achievement. In Christ’s Kingdom, however, service is the way to get ahead. The desire to be on top will hinder, not help. Rather than seeking to have your needs met, look for ways that you can minister to the needs of others.