“Now when the other ten heard this, they became angry with James and John. 42 Jesus called them and said to them, “You know that those who are recognized as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those in high positions use their authority over them. 43 But it is not this way among you. Instead whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”” Mark 10:41-45 NET
Loving God,
Two disciples, James and John, want the best positions in heaven. The rest are all angry when they find out and there is division. I can completely understand the conflict. But they are their way to Jerusalem and Jesus has tried to explain to them that His time has come and He will be put to death. They cannot have our hindsight and like us are just human. If this were a story we would wondering how on earth it could end well! Disunity, death of the leader and powerful opposing factions.
But Your Son does not dwell on who said what. He rises above it all and addresses them. He reminds them that it is the same old behaviour the world rulers use. Back to power struggles and climbing to the top by any means. He pulls the carpet out from under them.
In the kingdom of God He reminds them it is different. Greatness is seen in servanthood. And Your Son showed them and us perfectly by His own life. The King of Glory came to serve mankind. He led, he did not push, he never pushes or forces. He treated everyone with respect and compassion, even forgiving those who put Him to death. He spoke to women, beggars, outcasts and lepers the same as he did tax collectors and rich men. Teaching them the truth and the best for them personally.
Today, we pause to worship and consider our attitudes. Do we seek peace and unity in place of power. To serve one another in love. So Your peace, that passes all understanding, can keep our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus Your Son (Philippians 4:6).
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
Loving God,
For our family, extended family, friends, neighbours.
For our church Ministers, lay leaders, Sunday school teachers, fellow worshippers.
For our king and all those in authority (1 Timothy 2:2). Royal family.
For the Prime Minister and government, commons and Lords. Selection of new opposition leader.
For Gaza, Middle East, Change hard hearts, melt vengeance, send hope.
For Ukraine. Change and a miracle to end war.
For Myanmar freedom from military control. Your church people.
For Paris, the athletes, coaches and Olympian teams, those watching.
For the violence covered in the news to end. For those affected by it.
For grandparents, guardians, carers, play schemes caring for children in school holidays.
For us to have peace of mind, a good enjoyable day whether at work or home or on holiday.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Tuesday 30th July 2024
There is enough to battle with outside the church without falling out inside it. We may not all agree on everything but we can all come together in Jesus.
Will your anchor hold in the storms of life,
when the clouds unfold their wings of strife?
When the strong tides lift, and the cables strain,
will your anchor drift, or firm remain?
We have an anchor that keeps the soul
steadfast and sure while the billows roll;
fastened to the Rock which cannot move,
grounded firm and deep in the Saviour’s love!
Will your anchor hold in the straits of fear,
when the breakers roar and the reef is near?
While the surges rage, and the wild winds blow,
shall the angry waves then your bark o’erflow?
Will your eyes behold through the morning light
the city of gold and the harbour bright?
Will you anchor safe by the heavenly shore,
when life’s storms are past for evermore?
They do not sing this verse but it is worth adding here
Will your anchor hold in the floods of death,
when the waters cold chill your latest breath?
On the rising tide you can never fail,
while your anchor holds within the veil.