42 Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 43 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Power is the ability to influence people or circumstances. It is not automatically evil. Power can protect, create, lead and serve. But power becomes a road to ruin when it is used to elevate ourselves or control others.
Jesus contrasted the rulers of His world with the values of His kingdom. The world says greatness means being above others. Jesus says greatness means becoming a servant.
Our desire for power often grows from fear. We control because we are afraid of what might happen if we do not. We dominate conversations, manage people’s responses or insist on having the final word.
Jesus possessed all authority, yet He did not use His power to crush people. He used it to lift them. Kingdom power is not measured by how many people serve us, but by how faithfully we serve them.
Where might my desire for control be affecting the people around me?
Jesus, expose every place where I use influence for myself. Teach me to lead as you lead, with courage, humility and love. May the power you give me always be used to serve. Amen.
