Mark 9:30-34 - The path to true greatness

30 After leaving that place, they made their way through Galilee; and he did not want anyone to know,31 because he was instructing his disciples; he was telling them, 'The Son of man will be delivered into the power of men; they will put him to death; and three days after he has been put to death he will rise again.'32 But they did not understand what he said and were afraid to ask him.33 They came to Capernaum, and when he got into the house, he asked them, 'What were you arguing about on the road?'34 They said nothing, because on the road they had been arguing which of them was the greatest.35 So he sat down, called the Twelve to him and said, 'If anyone wants to be first, he must make himself last of all and servant of all.'36 He then took a little child whom he set among them and embraced, and he said to them,37 'Anyone who welcomes a little child such as this in my name, welcomes me; and anyone who welcomes me, welcomes not me but the one who sent me.'

THE SERMON

Here is another profound passage from the Gospel of Mark, where Jesus teaches his disciples about the nature of true greatness in the kingdom of God. This reading reveals deep truths about our aspirations, our relationships, and how we understand our worth in the eyes of God.

As we dive into this passage, we see that Jesus is journeying through Galilee, intentionally avoiding public attention. He knows that the time has come for him to prepare his disciples for what is to come. He speaks to them of his impending suffering, death, and resurrection, a message that is not just foretelling his fate but inviting them into a deeper understanding of sacrifice and love.

However, the disciples do not grasp the weight of his words; they are afraid to ask for clarification. Instead of seeking understanding, they turn to their own concerns, arguing about who among them is the greatest. This moment is a reflection of human nature, isn’t it? It’s so easy to get caught up in our own ambitions, our desires for recognition and status. In their bickering, we see a distraction from the very mission Jesus is preparing them for.

Jesus, in his infinite wisdom, addresses this struggle head-on. He sits down, a posture of authority and humility, and tells them, "If anyone wants to be first, he must make himself last of all and servant of all." What a revolutionary statement! In a world that often equates greatness with power and prestige, Jesus flips that notion upside down. Greatness in God’s kingdom is not about climbing a ladder of success but about laying oneself down in service to others.

To illustrate this radical teaching, Jesus takes a little child, placing the child among them. This act is deeply significant. In the cultural context of Jesus' time, children held little status and power; they were often seen as insignificant. Yet, Jesus emphasizes that welcoming a child, embracing the vulnerable and the marginalized, is a pathway to welcoming him and, by extension, welcoming God the Father.

So, what does this mean for us today? It calls us to examine our own hearts and motives. Are we pursuing greatness by the world's standards, or are we seeking to embody the humility and servanthood that Jesus exemplified? We live in a culture that often values achievement, recognition, and influence. Yet, Jesus invites us to find our worth in serving, in lifting others up, and in embodying love and compassion.

In our workplaces, families, and communities, we are often presented with opportunities to serve. When we choose to listen to the voiceless, support those in need, or stand up for justice, we are living out Jesus’ call. Each act of service, no matter how small, is a step toward greatness in God’s eyes.

Let us not forget that in serving others, we are not only following Christ’s example but also growing closer to him. When we welcome the least among us, we welcome Jesus himself. This radical mission is an invitation to encounter God’s presence in our lives.

After reading this message, I challenge you to think of one way you can serve this week. Perhaps it's a kind word to someone who is struggling, offering help to a neighbor, or volunteering your time for a cause that uplifts others. Remember that in these acts, you are embodying the love of Christ.

May we strive to be last of all and servants of all, finding our true greatness in love and humility.