“A dispute also arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. Jesus said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.” (Luke 22:24-26)
The disciples go from arguing over who would betray Jesus, “They began to question among themselves which of them it might be who would do this,” (vs.23) to who among them was the greatest. Basically, Jesus tells them to straighten out their attitude!
This was not the first time that Jesus told them they should be taking on the role of a servant. One who serves should be doing what is right in the first place and not blaming others or getting defensive when something goes wrong. One who serves is not out to get recognition but simply goes about the business of serving God by means of serving others. As followers of Christ, we are on the right track when we remember to do what Jesus does.
Prayer: Dear Lord, you have established the precedent for us. We know that when we follow you, we can take our eyes off ourselves and look at the needs of others. Forgive us for the times when we get too selfish. In Jesus’ name, Amen.