Jesus said, "If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me."
-Mark 8:34 (NRSV)
JAMES and John followed Jesus and became part of the intimate group of Jesus' closest companions. Even so, when the brothers asked that they be given a special place beside Jesus in his kingdom, Jesus taught them a better way. He called the disciples together and said to them, "Whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all" (Mark 10:43-44).
Many of us would rather be leaders than followers -- but Jesus called only for followers. We may be preoccupied with wanting some personal benefit or influence, but Christ asks us to take up the cross daily and follow him.
If we truly believe in Jesus Christ for all of our days and devote ourselves to enthusiastically serving him and his church, we will reap the fullness of spiritual blessings. We will deepen our relationship with Christ and also our relationships with our brothers and sisters as we serve them in love.
