Is wanting approval a bad thing?

I think often times in Christian circles and teaching, there is this sense that wanting to be good at something and maybe get noticed is seen as prideful and evil. To be sure, that is possible. But it's also very possible to want to be seen as very good in what you do and point people to Jesus!

As we see in our passage today in Mark 9:33-37, Jesus catches the guys in a pickle. They're having an intense debate between themselves as to who is number 1. Who's the best disciple? Maybe who is Jesus favorite follower? I'm sure it was a lively discussion. To the point that it caught Jesus attention and so he asked them, "What is it you've been arguing about"?

Now here's what stands out as it becomes obvious they were quarreling over who is the best of the bunch!

1) Jesus never scolds them or rebukes them for wanting to be great! He's just gonna redefine for them what greatness looks like. See you and I are wired to like applause. We want approval. It starts when we are young and want to be seen by our parents. We want to be accepted by our peers. We want to be viewed as a success at work. It's how God has made you.

BUT- when we live our lives only for the applause of men, and not for the approval of Jesus, we'll end up empty. Jesus points them in the direction of humility, of being of service to others. Of caring for people.

How can you be a blessing to others this week? Here's a couple reminders.

• Look people in the eye when you talk to them. If they serve you in some way, say thank you. Use their name if appropriate.
• Jesus says to welcome people. Greet them. Say Hello. Look for ways to show approval rather than disapproval. Send someone a note of appreciation. Make that phone call!
• Serve someone today. How can you lighten their load? How could you make their day? Ask them what you might do to be of help to them.

If we would be Good Neighbors, let's start as Jesus taught us, but seeking to encourage and build into others. Greatness is about building a kingdom. But whose kingdom? Jesus or Yours? Real success is having something that lasts after you- and that my friends will be found in serving as Jesus served us!

Pastor Mike
- Sunday was totally awesome as 8 friends gave their story of their love for Jesus and wanting to follow Him in Baptism! Thank-You for your generosity!

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