Then they came to Capernaum; and when he was in the house he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the way?” But they were silent, for on the way they had argued with one another who was the greatest.
Mark 9:33-34
Have you ever attended a Washington reception or dinner at which the “conversations” were basically resume comparisons and exercises in one-upmanship? I’ve been to more than a few, and you may have as well.
Once again, the behavior of the disciples in the Gospels mirrors uncomfortably our own attitudes and experiences. Called by the Christ, having witnessed his miracles, and taught directly by him, they reverted among themselves to boasting and personal advancement. When Jesus put them on the spot with his question – and I like to think he had a bemused expression on his face, since he knew what they had been up to – they suddenly became diffident in front of the boss. Where was the swagger then?
It’s even worse than that. On the way, Jesus had explained what was going to happen to him. “But they did not understand what he was saying and were afraid to ask him” (Mark 9:31-32). They didn’t get it, probably because it didn’t fit their preconceptions of the Messiah. So they hid their ignorance and lack of understanding, and got back to what came naturally – throwing elbows at each other. Ouch – sound familiar?
Jesus offers a simple and profound alternative for them - and for us. He says, “Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all” (Mark 9:35). It’s all too easy to get caught up in the pedigrees of education, professional accomplishment, and social status. But we will have “salt” in ourselves by looking for ways to serve others and being at peace with them (Mark 9:50).
God bless you!
Mark
