Not to be Served, but to Serve

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.

Mark 10:45

Jesus speaks the above words to His disciples after they have been quarreling amongst themselves about who is the greatest. Two of them had asked if they could sit at Jesus' right and left in Heaven; they were seeking to be great. But He rebukes them instead saying they should not be desiring greatness. He gives Himself as an example, saying that if He didn't come to be served then no one should expect that - particularly not His followers. And I think it's because that desire for greatness is selfish and therefore rooted in the flesh. It does not spring from a godly heart. Jesus knows that desire will never be completely satisfied, so He cautions His disciples because He loves them and wants the best for them.

I think the same is true for us. As I was meditating in church this morning, Holy Spirit was prompting me with a corollary to Jesus' words: "I did not send you to be served, but to serve, and to give your life for my kingdom." I did not sense that "give your life" meant that the sole purpose was to die a physical death, but rather to have a life completely dedicated to His kingdom. It does imply a different death, however - death to our flesh. "give your life" means giving up personal desires and setting aside worldly aspirations in order to do the kingdom work the Father has set.

Where do you stand today? Are you expecting to be served in this world? In what ways are you striving to serve and give of yourself for His kingdom?

Hallelujah, God. Thank you that you sent Jesus not to be served, but to serve. Thank you that Jesus gave his life as a ransom for all of us. His blood has paid the price for our sins; for this we thank you and worship you. Holy Spirit, please help us to change any improper expectations we have about being served. Let us seek to serve and not expect to be served. Help us to see where we can give more of our lives for the Kingdom. In Jesus’ name, amen!

Jesus didn't come to be served, so you shouldn't expect to be either.


from : http://prod.daily-devotionals.net/