To Be First

Do you want to be the best on your team? the best in your class? the first in line? We learn competition and striving to be the best from teachers, coaches and parents. What does Jesus say? The answer is in Matthew 20:20-28.

Mrs. Zebedee, James and John's mom, came to Jesus and asked if her sons could sit on the right and left of Jesus in His kingdom. She was in for a surprise, and her sons were too. 

Jesus said, "You know that leaders and rulers like to exercise their power over people. It must not be that way among you. Whoever wants to be great, must be your servant." What? A servant? That's right. Jesus said, "The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life--a ransom for many." 

Think About It
Jesus was humble and gentle instead of proud and arrogant. I am glad He came to ransom our souls from hell, to save us from our tendency to sin and live for ourselves instead of Him. I am thankful He died for our sin so we wouldn't have to and so we can spend eternity with Him. 

Pray About It
Holy God, thank you for your marvelous plan to redeem us from sin, Satan and death. Teach us your ways and empower us to carry out your will. Help us to be like Jesus. Amen.

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