Thoughts for the Day

A dispute also arose among them as to which one of them was to be regarded as the greatest. But Jesus said to them, ‘The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you; rather the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves. For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one at the table? But I am among you as one who serves.

(Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

During Advent we shall look at the people, places and symbols that invite us to prepare for the coming of the Christ-child at Christmas. They will not necessarily occur in the right order! Today we look at 'The Servant'.

Early in my adult life I was in a production of "Salad Days". While waiting to rehearse one of the other actors in the musical was solidly going through the text and muttering to himself. He suddenly looked up and said "I've got more words to say than you, and nearly as many as .....", and he named one of the main characters. Apparently he always did this!

During Advent we are encouraged to do some spiritual spring-cleaning, to try and be better at following Jesus, so today's reading comes from the Gospel of Luke. It's the story of the disciples who, during Jesus' final Passover supper, are arguing about their importance in God's Kingdom. The incident shames them and us for our need as human beings to be feted by others, rather than be the one who is ignored but is clearing up the mess made by others..

Jesus says he is on earth to serve, and the word 'servant' often meant someone who was a slave which highlights the difference even more between him and his disciples. Indeed in John's account of the last supper Jesus takes a towel, ties it around his waist, and washes their feet (John 13.3-5). Jesus, God's Son, came to save us all and to reunite us with God if we will let him. Unfortunately, most of us are like the charming young actor or the disciples, and we seek greatness. Jesus showed us that true greatness is in serving, more than in being served.

Lord Jesus Christ,
You came to serve not to be served,
and we still have not learnt the lesson,
but continue to seek greatness.
Show us how to serve other people
and to be content in fulfilling their needs.
Show us how to put others first
and ourselves last.
Show us what real humility
is all about that we may become more
like the people You would have us be.
Amen.