So Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:42-45 NLT
Kings and rulers have always been the epitome of power. The world’s view of power is in bold display all around us daily. Rulers lord it over people. Leaders of nations use authority to control, subdue, and dominate. In our world greatness means status, control equals leadership. The power is self-serving. People climb the ladder, sell out their convictions, and align themselves with “the right powerful people” to gain privilege and power.
But King Jesus turns our understanding of power upside down. His Kingdom is marked by servanthood rather than domination. Jesus redefines power by teaching and illustrating with His own life and ministry that true greatness comes from serving others rather than ruling over them. Greatness isn’t measured by how many people serve you, but by how you serve others. In fact, Jesus said there can be no greatness without serving. In His Kingdom, leaders must be different than the kingdoms of the world. While the world’s leaders flaunt their authority, the leaders in His community must be drastically different. Like Him, they must serve and lay down their lives both figuratively and literally for those they lead.
In the upside-down Kingdom of King Jesus, first means last. The path to honor comes through humility and sacrifice. Jesus was the King who did not come to be served. He came to serve and give His life to rescue others.
He’s the good, approachable King. Some kings are obeyed because they are feared. Not King Jesus. He invites us to trust Him because He is good. No manipulation. He invites us to follow Him, experience the mercy, grace, and security He gives, and then follow His leadership in extending that mercy, grace, and service to others.
Jesus is the different King. The One who serves.
- Jesus, thank You for showing me that true power is found in humility and loving service. Forgive me for the times I seek status, control, or the praise of others. Help me forget being first, and give me the courage to serve others with joy. Open my eyes to the needs around me. Break my pride, soften my heart, and make me more like You, my King.