Today's discussion question: Imagine this. Who claimed greatness & who disagreed?
These men sit at the Last Supper for goodness sake! What are they thinking? Did Peter look at John and say, "Go get us some more matzos?" Did John reply, "Get your own matzos, I'm listening to the Master?" Did Peter challenge with, "Do I remember you getting shut down when you asked to sit on Jesus' right or left?" Can you hear the huffs and groans from Thomas and Thaddeus? Did Jesus throw his head back and sigh to the heavens?
Jesus said the rulers and authorities call themselves benefactors. They place themselves in positions of esteem and power over the citizens they rule. In their own minds they benefit the citizens by making decisions for them. In reality they are bums who sponge off of the labor of others. Jesus draws a line for the disciples. They must not lead that way.True enough he has chosen them to be leaders. In verses 28-30 Jesus promises they will sit on thrones and eat from his table. But notice, he makes that promise in the context of shared trials and judging Israel. When you read "judge" think Deborah and Gideon. They will not judge from a bench in a paneled courtroom. They will deliver God's' people from their enemies in the trenches of oppression. They will put their own lives at risk for the Body of Christ.
Disciples enjoy times of table fellowship with King Jesus. But we must never think of table fellowship as a deserved luxury. Nor should we grow accustomed to any pampered manner of living. Resting with Jesus re-energizes us for sacrificial service. Jesus calls us and empowers us to serve on the front lines.
Would you agree?
Tell us about your experiences this 40 Days 'Till Easter.
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