Text: Luke 22: 22-30
CENTERING YOURSELF
God of Transformation and Grace,
I come before you today with a grateful heart, giving thanks for the many blessings in my life. As I present myself and pause for reflection in this space, be with me and guide me. Help me be open to Your presence and will for my life. Grant me wisdom, courage, and compassion as I seek to live out my faith and serve others as Jesus did. Amen.
SACRED READING [ PLAY]
- Jesus said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that.” Luke 22:25-26a
[Scene opens with the disciples sitting together]
James: [confidently] You know, I’ve been thinking. I’m pretty sure I’m the greatest of us.
John: [sarcastically] Oh, really? I must have missed the memo.
Peter: [laughing] James, what are you talking about? Jesus is obviously the greatest among us.
James: (defensively) Of course I know that! But I still think I’m pretty great too.
[Jesus enters the Scene]
Jesus: [smiling] What are you all talking about?
Peter: [gesturing towards James] James here thinks he’s the greatest among us.
Jesus: [chuckles] Is that so? Let me ask you all something. Who do you think is greater: the one sitting at the table or serving?
John: [thoughtfully] I would say the one who sits at the table.
Peter: [surprised] Really? But serving others shows humility and compassion.
John: [defensive] I didn’t say serving others wasn’t important. But think about it: the one who sits at the table is the one who is being served, they have power and authority.
James: [nodding in agreement] Yeah, I see what you mean.
Jesus: [shaking his head] You still don’t understand. The greatest among you should be like the one who serves. The one being served at the table should also serve.
Peter: [ashamed] We’re sorry, Lord. We still have so much to learn.
Jesus: [Jesus smiles understandingly] Don’t worry, my friends. You’re not the only ones who struggle with this. Even I had to learn the meaning of true greatness.
READINGS FROM PAST AND PRESENT TEACHERS
- Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely. – Lord Acton
- The measure of a man is what he does with power. – Plato
- The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any. – Alice Walker
- The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. – Nelson Mandela
QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION
- What emotions does this reading evoke in you, and how do they relate to your personal experiences and values?
- In what ways do you see yourself in the disciples’ struggle for power and recognition, and what lessons can you learn from Jesus’ teachings on humility and service?
- How can you follow the example of Jesus and serve others with compassion and grace?
- How do you prioritize the needs of others over your own desires for recognition or power?
- What role does humility play in your spiritual growth and relationship with God?
- What are some common misconceptions about power and authority, and how can we reframe our thinking to align more closely with Jesus’ teachings?
PRAYER OF CONFESSION
God of Compassion,
I confess that I often struggle with the desire for power and recognition. I sometimes forget that true greatness comes from serving others, just as Jesus did. Forgive me for my selfishness and pride and for the times when I have failed to love and serve others as I should.
ASSURANCE OF FORGIVENESS
God’s love and forgiveness are always available to me and to you. As I confess my sins, God is faithful and just to forgive and to cleanse me from all unrighteousness. I rejoice in this good news and seek to live more fully in the love of God. Amen
PRAYING FOR OTHERS
Yahweh Shalom,
I lift up this prayer to you today, praying for all those struggling with feelings of inadequacy or insecurity that they may find comfort and strength in your love. I pray for those who are oppressed or marginalized that they may experience justice and freedom. We pray for our world that all people may live in peace and harmony. And I pray that I may have the courage to serve others as Jesus did and live out my faith with humility and grace. Amen
BLESSING
As I leave this space of reflection to interact with the world, may I remember that true greatness comes from serving others. I follow the example of Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve. And may I go with the assurance that God’s love and grace are with me always. Amen.