Right Perspective

When the ten heard about this (asking for preferential treatment in heaven) they were indignant with the two brothers (James and John). Jesus called them together and said, "you know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Who ever wants to be great should be servant of all, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave- just as the son of man did not come to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many." Matthew 20:24-28

It is interesting that Jesus chose Gentiles as a reference for rulers lording it over subjects. The Jewish nation had enough overbearing leaders as well.

The disciples were struggling with their fleshly ideas. They were wanting to turn children away, judge and hate those who oppressed them. Jesus wanted them to have a Godly perspective. He was in a place He wanted to bring them to. Operating in love. Love conquers all. If love is the centre of all then we are less inclined to judge and be harsh. This is a value worth seeking.

Tonight I went to see Cinderella with a girlfriend. Cinderella, well at least this one, had values given her by her dying mother and loving father. She had a hatefully step mother and step sisters. She struggled to love them at times and when finally she was coming into her new life she turned to her step mother and said, "I forgive you." Very noble indeed and without God's grace nigh impossible to live out.

I need God's grace! It is the power to live. Amen!

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