Jesus answers His disciples’ self-serving question of which of them would be considered greatest by redefining “greatness.” It’s not one who “lords over” with power but one who actually uses that power to serve as a slave. Amazing!


The Lord has been teaching me recently what it is to be a servant leader to His people. It seems to be something we all need to learn. In our sinful nature, we secretly want to be great. In our leadership roles we hurt others. We want accolades and praise. Leadership can pave the way for those things. There is always temptation to glory in ourselves and to set ourselves above those we serve.


Jesus showed the way of leadership in His kingdom through humble servitude to others and to God. A true leader is the complete servant to those he or she shepherds. It’s why the image of Jesus as our shepherd is so powerful… because to shepherd wayward sheep, a shepherd must give his all. Our Savior did that, and then He did even more for us: He became the Lamb sacrificed for us, too!