In a world that’s focused on being first—first in line, first to succeed, first to win—Jesus gives us a different path. His radical message of servanthood helps us understand what it really mean to be “last of all and servant of all.” And how can we live this out in our everyday lives, when everything around us pushes us to look out for ourselves first?

 
Embrace Last Place in a First Place World

Counter-cultural Discipleship: This message challenges Christians to rethink what it means to follow Jesus in a competitive world that values first place. Reflect on how societal standards may conflict with Christian values.

 
Understanding Servanthood

Childlike Humility: Jesus bringing a child and placing the child among his disciples is a profound lesson in recognizing the value of humility and the “least” among us. Reflect on how you perceive and treat those who are considered insignificant by societal standards.

 
Difference Between Volunteering and Servanthood

Volunteers vs. Servants: The sermon differentiates volunteers, who act out of their own will, from servants, who act out of the will of God. Reflect on whether your service is driven by personal desires or a genuine call to serve God’s will.

 
Practical Applications

Daily Prayer: Repeat this prayer throughout your week: “Make me a servant.” How can this prayer could transform your interactions and mindset?
Focus on God’s Will: By serving others, we reorient our focus towards God. Reflect on ways you can serve in your community, workplace, and family to align more closely with God’s will.
Acceptance of Last Place: The sermon reassures that being in last place according to the world’s standards is a place of honor in God’s kingdom. Reflect on moments where you’ve felt overlooked or undervalued, and consider how these experiences could be aligning you closer to Christ.

 
Reflection Questions

Self-Examination: How have societal expectations of success influenced your views on servanthood and last place?
Service Orientation: In what ways can you shift from being a volunteer driven by personal desires to a servant devoted to fulfilling God’s will?
Inclusive Service: Are there groups or individuals you find difficult to serve? How can you expand your capacity to serve all people?
Daily Practices: How might regularly praying “Make me a servant” impact your daily life and spiritual journey?
Kingdom Priorities: What are some “dumb arguments” you need to let go of to focus more on Kingdom priorities?

 
Action Steps

Commit to Humility: Practice humility by acknowledging and valuing everyone, especially those deemed insignificant by society.
Serve Intentionally: Look for opportunities to serve in ways that stretch your comfort zone and align more with God’s desires than your own.
Cultivate a Servant’s Heart: Replace personal ambitions with a desire to serve others, drawing closer to God in the process.