The
advice that I read in a self-help book sounded good: Do only what you’re great
at because that’s when you’ll feel most fulfilled. The author was trying to help
readers create the kind of life they wanted. I don’t know about you, but if I
did only what I was great at, I wouldn’t accomplish much!
In Mark
10, we read about two disciples, James and John, who had some plans for the
kind of life they wanted for themselves someday. They asked to be at Jesus’
right and left hand in His kingdom (v.37). The other 10 disciples were “greatly
displeased” with them for asking (v.41). (Possibly because that was the kind of
position they wanted for themselves!)
But Jesus
used the opportunity to teach His followers about another kind of life—one of
serving others. He said, “Whoever desires to become great among you shall be
your servant. And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all”
(vv.43-44). It appears that service for others is God’s design for us.
Even Jesus, the Son of God, “did not come to be served, but to serve” (v.45). As we look at Christ’s example and depend on the Holy Spirit’s help, we too can be servants and will create a fulfilling life.
Great occasions for serving God come seldom, but little ones surround us daily. (RBC)
