Christian Reflection and Prayer

By Rev. Wayne Palmer

Lenten Devotion

(Jesus said) "Who is the greater, one who reclines at table
or one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at table?
But I am among you as the One who serves" (Luke 22:27).

Read Luke 22:24-27.

With infinite patience Jesus responds to His disciples' strife
about which of them will be considered the greatest. He
reminds them they are thinking the way worldly people
do-striving for recognition and self-promotion. His followers
will follow a different path.

The greatest among His people will regard themselves as
though they were the youngest, the lowest people who have
absolutely no claim over anyone else. Christian leaders will
be humble people who pour themselves out in lowly service.
And these apostles, when they go out to share the good
news about what Jesus accomplished for all people, will go
out as equals, serving the same cause, sharing the same
Gospel.

That is why pastors are called ministers. That title reminds
us of Jesus' humble, lowly service to us. Like Him, pastors
don't do their work for their own glory or recognition, but for
the benefit of those around them, and for the glory of their
Savior Jesus Christ.

As He lays aside the water basin and towel and resumes
His place at the table, He brings their focus back to Himself.
He is the glorious Son of God, yet He set aside that glory
and became human. He reminds them that He has come to
serve, and not to be served. He will soon show them the
greatest example of lowly, self-sacrifice as He offers
Himself unto death to remove our guilt and sin.

THE PRAYER:

Lord Jesus, my world seeks fame, honor, glory and
distinction. But You alone deserve this attention. Give me
joy in humbly serving, just as You stooped down to serve
each of us. Amen.

(Lutheran Hour Ministries)