If this isn’t your first time reading this passage, imagine that it is. You’re just getting to know Jesus, and again he shares about his brutal death and resurrection. What would you think if one of your teachers or close friends started talking like this? Remember that Jesus endured this for you and me.
Jesus is so much more than just a friend; he is God. The explicit details must have shocked the disciples. Why couldn’t God stop such a horrible thing from happening? There must have been heaviness surrounding them on this trek to Jerusalem–so many questions.
It’s a lot for us to process as well, even if we’ve heard the whole story or not. Having just heard Jesus’ words with no other context, it would seem so hard to believe. Mark’s gospel hasn’t focused much on Jesus’ encounters with those religious leaders who were so set on killing him. Suffice it to say, those leaders had not warmed up to Jesus’ teachings at all.
Despite all the confusion, James and John were able to think ahead when they asked the “favor” of having a place of honor beside Jesus. They didn’t have a clue what they were asking. Did you understand what Jesus was trying to tell them? Ultimately, our places in heaven will be determined by God. Jesus honestly tells James and John they cannot follow him on their own power. There is nothing we can do either to earn our way into heaven. Jesus is our only way.
Jesus makes it clear that the hierarchy of power we see and understand on earth will be different in the kingdom. Those who serve will be seen as great. In that day, we will no longer be slaves to sin or to each other. Jesus’ words of wisdom are as follows: “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Jesus shows us the way to be a true servant leader.
Our reading concludes with another healing account. What did you notice about this story? For me, (1) the blind man was called out by name, (2) Jesus did not take him aside to receive his healing in private, and (3) the man was not told to keep quiet about his healing. The healing was instant. Sometimes healings do happen that fast. How did the man respond? He followed Jesus.
Sit with these stories for a bit and let the Holy Spirit whisper meaning for you. What is the message God has for you today?
Let’s pray. Father, a lot is going on in this reading. Help me not rush past the message you have for me today. I struggle so much knowing how you suffered for my sake. May I never take your sacrifice for granted. I know you are preparing the perfect place for me, and I look forward to meeting you face to face one day. For now, you have given me a mission of servanthood. Empower me for your purposes on earth. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
