What do you want? Jesus asked. She said, “Give your word that these two sons of mine will awarded the highest places of honor in your kingdom, one at the right hand, one at your left hand.” Matthew. 20:21

The sons of Zebedee and their mother came to meet Jesus to discuss their pension package – a guaranteed life of power and affluence in the kingdom of Jesus. Like our world is made up, everyone scampers, hustles, and jostles for position, whether political, educational, or traditional. People are ready to do anything regardless of the sacrifice for power and position.

These disciples and their mother brought this kind of mindset before the Lord. They wanted to get there first before the other ten. Since it was thought to be on a first-come, first-served basis. Showing their interest before others indicated theirs would play to their benefit. Little did they know that the highest is the most excellent servant in the kingdom they have been called to.

Matthew 23:11-12 says, “The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

Brethren, there were cups to drink, sacrifices to be made, and standards to be met. It was not an all-comers affair. We are called to serve and not the other way. Even if it’s God’s prerogative to give out positions like He gave a name to Jesus, that is, above other names. Jesus got this after completing the task given to Him. In other words, leadership isn’t about titles or hierarchy; it’s about serving with intention. Make an impact with your actions and let them speak louder than any title could.

Everyone who seeks such a feat must also be willing to pay prices for the kingdom’s work, not by lobbying, buying a mandate, or any means sinister to the church and the body of Christ. Workers in the vineyard must be ready for the sacrifice; it is not a call to razzmatazz or showbiz. It’s a call that intends to bring God’s kingdom to earth. Amen. Mark 9:35 says, “Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the last of all and the servant of all.” Amen.

Prayer for the Day,
Lord, help me to have my priority placed rightly. I receive grace and power to do your will in Christ Jesus. Amen.