Facing Finals

"If  you would be first, then you will be last.  You will be the servant of all.
Receives a child in my name ... receives me and Him whom sent me."

Jesus is on the road to Jerusalem and a fate only He understood.
The Disciples had to be prepared for what was about to happen.

Mark 9:30-37

Follow For The Right Reasons
Jesus tells them plainly what the future holds.
But, it makes so no sense to them - it was contrary to their expectations.
Jesus is the Messiah and yet ... you say what is going to happen?
It did not compute.

What are your expectations because you follow Jesus?
Are you expecting persecution and death?
Why not ... ?
It is what is promised to you.
Forgiveness, Peace, Heaven, the Holy Spirit are already yours.

Talk As If Jesus Is Always Listening
Yup, back to prayer.
Anytime, any place, any situation - Jesus is waiting to be included in your life.
But, remember He is not a supporter of the never ending shopping list so many bore Him with!
Our needs, our prayers for others, our praise, our thanks are all desired by Him.

Let Go Of Your Own Greatness
When a Rabbi was about to teach, they sat down (bema (judgement) seat?), what they had to say was to be listened to.

3 John 9
"... who likes to put himself, does not acknowledge our authority ..."

Do not be great or boastful.  Seek not position but be the servant to all, the least of all in any gathering.

Seek to develop a grateful heart ...