Jockeying for Position

Read Luke 22:1-71

23. The disciples . . .
24. began to argue among themselves about who would be the greatest among them.
25. Jesus told them, “In this world the kings and great men lord it over their people, yet they are called ‘friends of the people.’
26. But among you it will be different. Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant.
27. Who is more important, the one who sits at the table or the one who serves? The one who sits at the table, of course. But not here! For I am among you as one who serves.
28. You have stayed with me in my time of trial.
29. And just as my Father has granted me a Kingdom, I now grant you the right
30. to eat and drink at my table in my Kingdom. And you will sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” Luke 22:23-30

Some people have trouble remaining serious at somber occasions. The weight of the moment more than escapes them—its gravity causes their minds to wander. They are oblivious to their surroundings and the importance of the event.

The disciples fall prey to a form of this as Jesus shares some difficult news. Rather than listening to what he has to say, they begin to argue about who will be the greatest in God’s kingdom. Jesus’ response to their arguing is amazing. He could have rebuked them for their pettiness. Instead, he tells them how to be great and then sets the example. As you read, consider how you may be getting in the way of God’s purpose for your life. Are you focused on yourself or on doing his will?

At Jesus’ last supper with his disciples before his death, the disciples got into a lively discussion about who would be greatest in his upcoming kingdom. Why did they jockey for position at a time like this (Luke 22:24)? Did they simply not want to believe the bad news, or didn’t they care? Capitalizing on their self-centeredness, Jesus explained that to be great they must serve others (22:25-27).

It’s easy to criticize the disciples for their self-centeredness, but that’s the way we are, too. Sometimes we have great concern for our own ascent to greatness, wealth, and prestige. But Christ commands us to do as he did by serving others.

About what desires for career advancement, better reputation, or public achievement do you dream? Rather than just serving your ambitions, look for opportunities to serve others.