Greatness Serves Others

Are we obsessed with being first?

First in our friend group to land that dream job.

First to get married.

First to do something so remarkable that others talk about it.

First to “make it.”

Jesus presented an idea about being first that still sounds radical today: “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all” (Mark 9:35).

This perspective wasn’t just a new way of thinking, it was a complete reversal of how society thought about success. While many people around Jesus — including his own disciples — fought for positions of honor and influence, Jesus consistently demonstrated his view of greatness by turning down opportunities for power, walking away from crowds wanting to make him famous, and spending time with people who couldn’t perceivably offer him anything.

This wasn’t about lacking ambition or settling for less - it was about understanding that real influence and greatness doesn’t come from pushing yourself into the spotlight, but from serving others and letting them shine.

When Jesus’ followers argued about who was the greatest, he responded by serving them. When opportunities for recognition came his way, he often redirected the attention to others. He showed that true greatness isn’t about climbing to the top of the ladder; it’s about helping others take the next step up.

Self Reflection

How can I find contentment and purpose in my current season of life while still serving others, whether I’m waiting for my own dreams to unfold or already experiencing the success I’ve hoped for?

How might my ambitions and character change if “being first” meant being first to serve, first to support, first to celebrate others’ victories?