Mar 2 2009 Num 30-31, Mark 9

Scripture
Then He came to Capernaum. And when He was in the house He asked them, “What was it you disputed among yourselves on the road?” But they kept silent, for on the road they had disputed among themselves who would be the greatest
Mark 9:33-34

Observation
Jesus had a special way of leading people through asking questions. Here is no exception. In response to Jesus question, “what were you guys talking about back there”. The disciples were quiet and immediately convicted.

Mark tells us that they didn’t answer Him. They didn’t answer because they were ashamed. As long as they thought that Jesus didn’t know they were fine. If they had been discussing how to have a better prayer life, or how to serve God better, they would have been eager to tell Jesus about that. But they kept silent because they had argued about which of them was the greatest.

Application
Amazingly enough, they thought that Jesus didn’t know what they were discussing. But He knew what was in their hearts, and even though they didn’t answer His question, Jesus knew exactly what they had been talking about.

When are we going to learn that we have no secrets from God?

Notice that Jesus did not condemn them or rebuke them for desiring greatness. He did not say that it is wrong to want to be great. He did not say that it is wrong to want to succeed. I believe that God has given all of us an inborn trait that makes us want to succeed in life, to be great in whatever it is that we do. Jesus doesn’t say that’s wrong. But instead He redefines what "greatness" is.

What is "greatness?" True greatness is to be found in service, in a concern about others, willing even to be last, instead of always putting yourself first. This is contrary to everything the world teaches. The world says that greatness is measured by how many people serve you. Greatness, according to the world, is measured by the number of lives that you control. But Jesus says that true greatness is measured by how many people you help - how many people you serve along the way.

Prayer
Lord, help me to live a truly great life, not be the worlds standard, but yours.