Not to Be Served

Have you tried the practice where you read a story in the Bible and notice which character resonates with you? I must confess, I would not want to do that practice with today’s text (Mark 10:35-45). I do not want to entertain the idea that I might share some similarities with James and John. None of us wants to admit that we, too, might be seeking notoriety and power, especially with such bald ambition. Yet, there is something entirely understandable about this episode in our walk with Jesus that, despite my resistance, I can’t help but feel for them. And it seems that Jesus does too.

When we gather for worship, we are so very similar to the disciples. There are some of us searching for our place with ambition and enthusiasm that may (or may not!) be a little misguided or misplaced. Others are waiting on the sidelines, longing for someone to invite them to step into their role and find their place in the community. Conflict may be simmering under the surface as people misunderstand and misinterpret one another. This is what happens sometimes when we humans get together. How, then, can worship help us recognize that we’re all searching for the same thing—a place to belong?

Jesus, as usual, gives us a good place to start. We serve. We realign ourselves toward service with one another, our community, and our world. Not “I’m going to burn out because I’m the only one who shows up” service. No, this is service in partnership with one another and God, service that values one another and the gifts we bring, service that is sustainable through the ebbs and flows of our lives because we do it together. So, take some time today to highlight areas of service in your congregation. Who can speak to life-giving partnerships of service in your church? Remember, these don’t have to be big projects. Sometimes the most meaningful witnesses are to the everyday moments of Christians living in Spirit-filled community with one another. This may be the time to consider new areas of service in the community that fit with the assets and spiritual gifts in the congregation. How do the gifts of your church fit the needs of your neighborhood? Maybe today isn’t a day for answering that question but for asking and listening as God guides the imagination and creativity of your congregation as you explore new opportunities. On this leg of the journey with Jesus, take the time to pray and celebrate the ways God is already at work and will continue to work among you!