Jesus told those gathered around Him that the greatest among them must be a servant. That’s instruction for us today as well.
What I’ve seen far too often is that we allow the “greatest” among us to be up on pedestals where they wouldn’t know servanthood if it walked up and bit them.
There is no pastor, deacon, elder, bishop, or other church leader who should not be a servant to those around them. None. A servant meets real needs, not what they think the person needs. Never just a blanket “fix” that those in need should be happy to have.
Jesus was speaking to His 12 that He knew would soon be the leaders of the exploding world Church when He said this as well as the crowds and other followers. He had just rebuked the religious leaders of the day for their pride and arrogance.
If you’re a leader, be careful of the spirit of arrogance growing and blooming in you. Never be above holding the hand of the grieving or wiping the tears of the hurting. Never be too busy to stop and comfort a child or a widow. Never be beyond chatting with and listening to teens to let them know they are valued. It is crucial that you truly look and listen to see what is really needed, not what you think is needed. It will never be a one-and-done, a one-size-fits-all repair.
Always remember that the greatest among the people must be a servant to them.
I think it’s wise to measure our leaders by these words. There’s no getting around Jesus’ intent. Leaders of the faith should be servants to the faithful in whatever way is needed.
Mind you, I’m NOT saying that the leader has to be at every birth, birthday, graduation, wedding, funeral, or sickbed. That pastor has a family, too. It’s the heart. (Isn’t it always?) Is the pastor/deacon/elder/bishop WILLING to be with those Jesus followers to help them see the Savior in the midst of their moments or do they believe themselves above the messy work of Being There?
Where is your heart, Faith Leader? Are you serving or are you being served? Time for change? Today is a great day for this deep evaluation. Putting it off is never a good idea! Let’s do this!
Coffee, Bible, Journal.
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