And in future days the Lord’s Temple Mount will be the most important mountain of all; it will be more prominent than other hills. People will stream to it.
Into the Text
The leaders of Israel and the prophets were all corrupt. They were serving their own interests above the interests of the people. It was causing devastation and destruction within the nation. They had forgotten whom they were truly serving.
We, too, face a similar choice. In a world that says that serving self and doing what seems right to you is the most important, we must decide whom we will serve. Will we serve self or God? Take a moment to think about your own heart. Are you willing to set aside your wants and desires to follow what God may be calling you to? Are you willing to put others first over getting something you want? Is your heart’s desire to make the name of Jesus known over building your platform or building your own renown? It’s a choice we all must make.
Though serving oneself may seem enticing, it always leads to disappointment and pain. Jesus offers us abundant life both here and now and for eternity. But, He says, if we want true happiness, we must deny ourselves. We must be willing to take the place of a servant, just as He did. It will sometimes be uncomfortable and even painful, but we will be blessed. And when Jesus returns to take His own into His kingdom, we will not regret any sacrifice we may have made during our earthly life.
The leaders of Israel forgot who they were serving. They were distracted from the most important thing. Let’s keep our eyes focused on Christ and make sharing the good news of the gospel be our most important service.
Prayer
Jesus, I can so often turn my focus away from you to myself. When this happens, Holy Spirit, help me turn my gaze back to Christ. May I be known for loving the Lord and serving Him instead of being like the world and serving only myself. Amen.