Who Am I - I Am a Servant

Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came up to him with her sons, and kneeling before him she asked him for something. And he said to her, “What do you want?” She said to him, “Say that these two sons of mine are to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom.” Jesus answered, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am to drink?” They said to him, “We are able.” He said to them, “You will drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” And when the ten heard it, they were indignant at the two brothers. But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:20–28 ESV).

 

What is the pinnacle of achievement, the ultimate honor in life? The Nobel Prize is widely considered the most prestigious award globally, recognized for its impact across various fields, while other awards like the EGOT in entertainment and top film festival honors also hold significant prestige. There are military honors like the Medal of Honor or Purple Heart, given for sacrifice and bravery.  And there are "The Big Four": The Academy Awards (Oscars), Golden Globes, BAFTA Awards, and SAG Awards which are generally considered the most significant film awards. And there are Academic and Scientific Distinctions; as well as the International Olympiad Medals. Jesus explained that the highest honor and the greatest achievement in life is to be recognized as a servant of God. In God’s kingdom, this calling is second to none.

 

From our Scripture today we learn that Jesus measures success differently than we do. He doesn’t rate us by material wealth, academic accolades, corporate status, or athletic prowess. Rather, he calls us to humble service, teaching us to use our talents and resources for selfless service to others.

 

Jesus’ disciples had quarreled about who should have the high ranks in his kingdom. They were ready to vie for a throne but not for a servant’s towel. But true greatness, joy, and fulfillment are not found in gratifying oneself. In God’s economy, these things emerge organically as a result of serving God and others.

 

Jesus not only preached this principle; he exemplified it by laying down his own life for us. When our everyday lifestyle consists of serving others, we honor God—and in turn we are blessed.