Holston Devotional Series | August 31, 2019

August 31, 2019

by Laura R. Rasor

Clergy of Broadway UMC (Maryville, TN)

Smoky Mountain District

One of the things my husband David enjoyed about going to seminary in the South was benefiting from Southern hospitality. Most of us raised in the South were taught never to take the last of any food during a meal. David did not grow up in the same context (we called him a Yankee even though he’s from Kansas). So whenever we would have a group meal, David would take the last cookie or piece of pie without a second thought, while the rest of us looked on jealously.

We take great pride in our Southern hospitality, offering it as an example of how helpful and humble we are. Of course, when you think about it, it isn’t very humble when you take “pride” in something.

This gospel story offers a pretty ugly picture of pride. First, there’s the mother who is charging to the front of the line and calling for favors from Jesus. She wants her sons to have the best seats by his side. It might remind us of recent news about privileged parents who have “pushed to the front of the line” to get their children admitted to elite universities.

Then there’s the unflattering picture of the other ten disciples. They are angry and jealous of the brothers, even though they’ve all been traveling and learning and following Jesus together.

Jesus’ response is quite direct. “You don’t know what you’re asking... That’s not the way it will be with you.” (CEB) In other words, you just don’t get it. This is not who we are. Turn away from the pride, anger and jealousy. Repent. The world says, it’s all about me. Jesus says, if you want to be great, be a servant.

Every day we are given opportunities to witness to our faith. Do I push to the front of the line or do I serve my neighbor? Do I give into anger or do I show mercy? Do I focus on me and mine or do I open my eyes to the needs of a broken world?

Jesus has freed us to embody the Love showered upon us at every moment.

Prayer: Dear God, walk with me today as I try to walk with you. Help me to see you in those whose paths cross mine. Help me to serve. Help me to love. For you and for your world. Amen.