“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” (Mark 10:43, NIV)

Reflection:
The world defines greatness by titles, power, and wealth. Yet Jesus turns this notion on its head, declaring servanthood as the essence of greatness. Imagine a master washing the feet of his servants. This is the image Christ paints for authentic leadership. Humility, not dominance, is the pathway to impact in the kingdom of God.

Jesus’ words challenge the innate human desire for recognition and control. He says, “Not so with you.” This call to service confronts our tendency to strive for prominence at the expense of others. A.W. Tozer once said, “The meek man is not a human mouse afflicted with a sense of inferiority, but he may be in his moral life as bold as a lion and as strong as Samson.” The practice of true servanthood requires us to boldly lay aside personal ambitions for the sake of others.

The story of James and John seeking positions of power in Jesus’ kingdom is quite relevant (Mark 10:35-45). Their request, though earnest, revealed a misunderstanding of leadership in God’s economy. Jesus patiently redirected them: leadership is not about lording authority but lifting others.

Consider how often our motives for service stem from seeking affirmation or visibility. True servanthood, however, flows from a heart aligned with God’s purposes, seeking His glory above personal gain. John Stott captured this beautifully: “Greatness in the kingdom of God is measured by how low we stoop to serve.”

Imagine a world where individuals prioritize the need of others. we will see communities healing, relationships thriving, and God’s kingdom expanding. there is no pretension is servanthood; it’s a lifestyle. it reflects the heart of Christ to the world.

Challenge, Prayer, and Further Reading:
This week, ask God to reveal opportunities to serve unnoticed. Pray for joy in serving others, knowing how much it honours Christ. Reflect also on Matthew 23:11–12, which reminds us that humility leads to elevation. Read from Philippians 2:3–4. There we have the instruction to value others above ourselves. Look into Matthew 20:25–28, which focuses on Christ’s example of servanthood. Meditate on how Christ’s humility inspires the need for change in your life.

Transformation begins when service becomes the cornerstone of our interactions.