New Article: Be Last

Peter was probably not surprised when he learned that Jesus wanted to talk to him. Someone had to take charge of the followers when Jesus went back to heaven. Perhaps Peter thought this was his big promotion.

If so, he was quickly disappointed. Jesus’ message to Peter was, “Feed my sheep!” (John 21:15-20). Not “lead my sheep” but feed them. Typically, this was a job given to the youngest, most insignificant member of the family. You may recall that years before, when Samuel came to anoint a new king, David was not present, because, as the youngest, he was out with the sheep. “Feed my sheep” was not a high-level assignment. In essence, Peter was being asked to humble himself and serve everyone els

Jesus consistently taught that we ought to serve one another. Several times he stated that, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and servant of all” (Mark 9:35). His own example was that he “Did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).

Unfortunately, Jesus’ followers were more concerned about recognition, honour, and power. One time, they were arguing about something, and when Jesus asked what they were talking about, no one wanted to tell him. They had been arguing about who was the greatest! (Mark 9:3

Sadly, things have not changed much. In 2019, our congregation celebrated its 100^th anniversary. Hundreds of people showed up. It was wonderful. The only complaint I received afterwards came from those who felt they had not been given enough recognition. No one complained that they were not asked to wash more dishes, or take out more garbage, or that they did not get to spend more hours cleaning up afterwards. The only complaint was from those who felt they ought to have had a bigger spotlight.

Can we forget ourselves and serve God and others? Can we do the right thing, whether anyone sees it or not? Can we elevate serving instead of being served?

Here is a secret: Living that way will not only help others, but it will also bless you, too!

Here is another secret: Serving is how Jesus changed the world.

“I have set you an example that you should do as I have done” (John 13:15).

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