We live in a world driven by ambition. People desire recognition and acknowledgment, and even the disciples of Jesus were no exception. John and James approached Jesus, asking to sit at His right and left when He comes in glory. They wanted to secure the top positions—second and third—before anyone else had the chance to ask. While they were undoubtedly great people, hardworking, and deeply committed, their ambition was evident. In many ways, they resembled prosperity preachers.

Today, we see more prosperity preachers than ever before, and many Christians struggle to distinguish between biblical teaching and prosperity preaching. Charles Spurgeon wisely noted, “Discernment is not knowing the difference between right and wrong. It is knowing the difference between right and almost right.” Prosperity preachers focus on wealth, health, positions and the ambition to attain them. Yet, the dark side of ambition is greed.

Whom do we look up to for support? Who among us is truly acknowledged and respected? Is it the person who wields authority over us? The one who drives an expensive car? Or is it the one who holds our hand and prays for us in our time of trouble? Is it not the one we can count on to help us in need, no matter the circumstances? As someone once said, “Volunteers don’t get paid, not because they’re worthless, but because they’re priceless.” No wonder why Mother Teresa is repected by all.

Jesus had already taught His disciples that if anyone wants to be first, they must be the last of all and the servant of all (Mark 9:35). When John and James raised the same question again, Jesus presented Himself as the ultimate model of servanthood. He said, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). Jesus is priceless, we ought to follow his model.

May the Lord help us to be the first to serve others! God bless!