“Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Him, saying, “Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask.” And He said to them, “What do you want Me to do for you?” They said to Him, “Grant us that we may sit, one on Your right hand and the other on Your left, in Your glory.” But Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you ask. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” They said to Him, “We are able.” So Jesus said to them, “You will indeed drink the cup that I drink, and with the baptism I am baptized with you will be baptized; but to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it is prepared.” And when the ten heard it, they began to be greatly displeased with James and John. But Jesus called them to Himself and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant. And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.””
Mark 10:35-45 NKJV
John and James requested earthly positions of honor, power, and authority from Jesus. Jesus explains that great suffering would come as a result of their close relationship with Him. Jesus tells them that their highest ambition should be to serve God’s people and bless them.
What position of ministry, authority, or promotion are you coveting? Where do you need to let go of comparing and competing? True greatness in God’s sight is one who humbly serves others, because this quality is like His Son, Jesus.
Father God, give me a servant’s heart like Your Son, Jesus. Lord, teach me to be content in the position in which I am currently. Help me to release comparisons and competitiveness with other sisters in Christ. In Jesus’ name. Amen.