19 - 25 September 2021
Worship Together
19 - 25 September 2021
Jostling for position
Mark 9.30-37In the passage, there is both literal and metaphorical movement: the physical journey towards Jerusalem and the dawning understanding by Jesus’ followers. Jesus disturbs his disciples by predicting his suffering and death. However, the disciples – whether through misunderstanding, or to avoid thinking about it – argue and jostle for position: which of them is the greatest? Calling them to order, Jesus explains that to be the greatest is to serve others.
After Jesus again predicted his death and resurrection, the disciples – not understanding – argued about who was the greatest. Jesus responded with talk about the first being last and the last, first. He drew a little child into the middle of the group, saying that welcoming a child was an example of welcoming him. How might this relate to us?
This week we explore what it means to be the greatest.
Lectionary Bible readings for RCL Proper 20 Year B
Jeremiah 11.18-20
Psalm 54
James 3.13-4.3,7-8a
Mark 9.30-37
