The lesson is drawn from chapter nine of the Gospel of Mark beginning with verse thirty. The disciples with Jesus on the road to Capernaum are arguing amongst themselves when Jesus tells them (for the second time) that he will die that they might live. The men are so self-absorbed that the message eludes them.
Arguing, for these disciples, is within their natures. Ours. too?
When they come into the house, Jesus asks them what they were talking about on the road. Silence. Why? Guilt.
Self-absorption kills empathy, let alone compassion.
Those preoccupied with their own selfish desires spend their time trying to achieve position and power.
"He who would be first must be last." --Jesus
He who would be first must be servant to all (even as Christ gave himself for all).
In our sinful nature we have a propensity to look out for #1 first. We are competitive; losing is insufferable.
Crucify self. Jesus said, "Take up your cross and follow me." When Christ took up his cross, where did he go? To death. So must we die to self.
If people shift from a me-focus to a you-focus it would change everything.
Become Selfish-Aware
Take an Interest in Others
Become a Servant
(because we want to serve)
Carry each other's burdens. In this we are never more Christ-like.
God does help those who cannot help themselves. We serve through acts of humility, compassion, and justice.
Christ is the most important person in any room!
1. How much do you think of the needs of others?
2. What have you done for some one other than yourself this week?
3. What would others say about your concern for others?
Do you truly care for others, or are you the most important person in the room?
Pastor Johnnie Blair
Sunday morning
1 comment:
Sometimes it's hard to remember that it is in losing myself that I find my identity in Christ.
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