Teachable moments are great. They may be on purpose or better yet when they just happen organically. We never want to stop learning. The disciples had such a grand spot in history of being in the presence of God. The account we have been reading from Mark, however, would suggest they didn’t realize their good fortune.
We hear in today’s passage several nuggets and examples of teachable moments. This is the second time now that Jesus has tried to warn them about what is to happen to him. He is preparing them and planting the seed of truth even though they don’t understand right now. We may be experiencing something like that, not understanding the “why” at the moment. I trust that one day all will be revealed.
I was a little amused by the story of them quarreling on the road and not wanting to tell Jesus why. As a parent, we often find our children in one dispute or another, and sometimes we never know the root cause. Could it be time for a teachable moment? Jesus thinks so here, and I’m sure the disciples were very surprised when he sat them down, seeming to know exactly what their conflict was.
His teachable moment for them reaches across the ages for us, as well. “Whoever wants to be first must take last place and be the servant of everyone else.” This would seem to be backwards. Doesn’t everyone strive to be on the top? Sports teams want to be #1. Companies want their product to be rated the highest against competitors. Yet, Jesus is talking of our heart, our character, our integrity. We need to look at our hearts and see if we are truly serving others and not ourselves.
Having been a children’s ministry director for years and being involved as a volunteer for many more working with children, verse 37 has always been a favorite of mine. It drives the point home. “Anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes not only me but also my Father who sent me.”
We can learn a lot from children. Their faith is so pure. Their innocence so refreshing. If we could only revive the complete trust and faith we had as children, the world would be a much better place. Many adults ignore children (unless they are their own), but so much wisdom can be gained and blessings received if we try to reach our inner child.
Jesus goes on to teach on several different points. If those spoke to you, I’d love to hear from you in the comments. I’m choosing to take my quiet time now to spend reflecting on the innocence of childhood and how I can rattle my memory to have that unquestioning kind of faith.
Let’s pray. Father, thank you for this reminder today. You are always there to teach me and lead me. Help me in shedding my behaviors that are selfish and self serving so that I can be more of a servant. I long to serve others and help them grow closer to you. Fill me with your spirit so I will reflect you in all I say and do. Thank you for the freedom and courage to speak and share. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
