Adam, Zac, Hayley, Jessica, Cassidy, Micah, Megan & Kati,

Sorry for the lack of emails the past few days, I was camping with Jessica, Jimmy and Jessica’s extended family near Gig Harbor. I’m excited to be back and to dig into Mark again!

“On the way” through Judea

Part 2 (10:32-52)

The Third Passion Prediction

I love the picture here of Jesus, walking on ahead, leading the way, while the twelve are amazed and the crowd following them are afraid. Jesus gives the clearest, most detailed explanation of what He’s about to suffer – and immediately after, two of his most prominent disciples are asking for fame and prominence.

Self-Serving Sons of Zebedee & Self-Sacrificing Son of Man

It’s so hard to believe James and John here, believe that Jesus is the Messiah, yet trying to force His hand by asking Him to “do for us whatever we ask”. Instead of saying yes or no, Jesus pushes them to ask their request before He gives an answer. The fact that they’re asking for the most important positions shows that they don’t “get” what’s happening.

I love how Jesus tries to show them (again) that to follow Him is not about position and fame, but about suffering and serving – and how He beautifully concludes it with Himself as the prime example – even the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve – and to give His life as a ransom for many.

There is so much here for those who would lead the church. We are not to be elevated above the church as celebrated leaders, but rather those who are burdened daily with the needs and cares of those we lead. As we can see from Paul, it can be heavy, but it is the expression of genuine love.

A Model Disciple

Notice that Jesus asks Bartimaeus the exact same question He just asked James and John: What do you want me to do for you? But His answer is very different. He just wants to be able to see. Instead of trying to use his closeness to Jesus to force His hand (“do for us whatever we ask”), he is crying out desperately, trusting nothing but Jesus’ compassion. The crowds – and probably even some of Jesus followers – try to shut him up, but he won’t stop. And when he does get his request? Immediately, he “follows Him on the way”. James and John wanted to skip the suffering and sit with Jesus in glory, but Bartimaeus is willing to walk with Jesus, even on the road to the suffering in Jerusalem.

Jesus, may we cry out in desperation, like Bartimaeus, for things we truly need – for one, spiritual sight – and when given glimpses of You and Your purpose, may we get in line and follow with You on the road of suffering and service, laying down our lives for others like You do.

-- peter