Luke 22:21-39

“The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those in authority over them are called benefactors” (v25).  At the heart of Jesus’ teaching, ministry, and death was his radical re-definition of lordship and power.  Leaders in the ancient world ruled by violence, by controlling resources, and by giving favors in exchange for loyalty, and their status increased with their display of power. But Jesus, King of Kings, said “I am among you as the one who serves” and died on a cross (v27).

“Let the greatest among you become as the youngest …” (v26).  Jesus calls us to reject the world’s methods of winning and forms of control in order to embrace his kingdom of sacrificial love.