January 22

Introduction

Mark 10:35–52: James and John, two of Jesus’s disciples, request to sit on either side of Jesus in heaven. When the other disciples get upset at their request, Jesus reminds them all that anyone who wishes to be great must be a servant (verses 43, 44; cf. Mark 9:35). Jesus heals a blind man named Bartimaeus who immediately begins to follow Jesus.

Today’s Key Verse: Mark 10:45

[Jesus said]: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served; he came to serve and to give his life to redeem many people.”

Reflect

What was Jesus’s response to the request of James and John (verses 38–40)? Why do you think the other disciples became angry with James and John? How would you have felt in that situation? What reason does Jesus give for his statement that whoever wishes to become great must be a servant (verse 43)? According to verse 52, what brought about Bartimaeus’s healing? (See also Mark 9:23 from the reading on January 19. You may wish to ponder again the role of faith.)

Pray

O God, keep me humble when pride and ambition threaten to lead me astray. Let peace prevail when I quarrel over foolish or vain things. Bless those who already demonstrate a servant’s heart, and create in me a greater willingness to serve others. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Acts 8:4–25: The Good News is preached in Samaria.