Monday July 25th, 2016 St. James, Apostle Mark10:35-45
"Grant us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory." (verse 37)
How many of us strive to be the best, whether as a student in our younger years or rising up the corporate ladder as an adult? And in many cases, our culture rewards those who get ahead.
James and John wanted that recognition. They wanted the ultimate prize: to sit beside Jesus forever. So when Jesus turned the tables on them and said, “Whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all,” (verse 44) it must have caused some anxiety. Striving to do our best is quite different from striving to be the best. And we need to be cognizant of that distinction.
As a musician in ministry this attitude can sometimes be conflicting. There is always a desire to only perform when a musical selection has been perfected. However, one must also be aware of the incredible power of music and how we must use music to serve. The psalms encourage us to praise the Lord with music, with songs and with instruments, to the best of our abilities. All who have talents must use them to serve others.
Gracious God, help us to be the servants that you want us to be. Help us to see the needs of others and respond to that calling. Amen. — SD
Contributed by The Musician Servant
How many of us strive to be the best, whether as a student in our younger years or rising up the corporate ladder as an adult? And in many cases, our culture rewards those who get ahead.
James and John wanted that recognition. They wanted the ultimate prize: to sit beside Jesus forever. So when Jesus turned the tables on them and said, "Whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all," (verse 44) it must have caused some anxiety. Striving to do our best is quite different from striving to be the best. And we need to be cognizant of that distinction.
As a musician in ministry this attitude can sometimes be conflicting. There is always a desire to only perform when a musical selection has been perfected. However, one must also be aware of the incredible power of music and how we must use music to serve. The psalms encourage us to praise the Lord with music, with songs and with instruments, to the best of our abilities. All who have talents must use them to serve others.
