“The RoseBouquet”

Favouritism. We all hate it when we see it in someone else, but if the truth be told, we like to be the one who is favoured, right?

Mothers are known to seek out the best for their children. It’s the nature of a healthy Mom. But this mother of James and John, Zebedee’s sons, boldly asked for special places in Jesus’ kingdom, right at His side. To be fair, she understood there was a great kingdom coming. She wanted the best for her sons.

Nor did Jesus rebuke her for this. Instead, he turned to James and John and asked them, “Are you able to drink the cup I am going to drink?” In other words, can you suffer all I’m going to suffer?

“We can,” they answered. Their mom had taught them confidence, so faith came easily to them.

Jesus agreed they would drink from this cup, but as for who got to sit where in the throne room, - that was up to God the Father.

The other disciples heard about this conversation soon enough, and they were indignant. Jesus headed off a clash by addressing all the disciples. He reminded them that the Gentile style of leadership was to lord it over others and give commands. But that was not how it was to be with them. In His spiritual kingdom, those who would be recognized and rewarded were the servants, those who served as glad and willing slaves. All they had to do was follow His own example as the Son of Man who came to serve and to give up His life as a ransom for many.

What does this mean for me and you? Don’t be bossy Christians; we’re to lovingly, respectfully serve others. That’s what will get us promoted to higher positions, where we’ll get even bigger chances to serve.

PRAYER: Lord, I wish we could watch more examples of this at work. But You gave us the best example of a servant-hearted Saviour. Keep my eyes on You. Thanks for the opportunities I have to serve. Help me to be an example to those who watch me.

+++++Jesus is my King+++++Jesus is my King+++++

Blessings on you Today!
Ruth Marlene Friesen

P.S. If you have difficulty building new friendships it might help to watch someone who makes friends easily and study her. Ruthe, the heroine in my novel would make a great subject for this! The whole book is from her viewpoint and shares her thoughts. You get to “feel” what it is like to start a new friendship, and then work at keeping it alive..Get “Ruthe’s Secret Roses.” the softcover at Booklocker.com