Suddenly… Immediately… Right now…

What do these words mean to you?

The gospel of Mark is known for his use of the term “immediately.” He portrays Jesus as the servant and a servant acts immediately when called upon. He doesn’t ponder, consider, contemplate if he will act or when. He responds when called. So Jesus is portrayed as the servant of God who acts immediately when called.

Mark 10:45 clearly states the purpose of the gospel of Mark:

Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 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 10:42-45

If we are to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, we must learn to serve one another. It isn’t a question of when or if or even of desire. It is a matter of immediate response. Jesus introduced an upside down kingdom and we are invited to be a participant. The problem: I have a difficult time responding immediately to the needs of others. I consider. I contemplate. I wonder. I decide.

And that seems to be the responsible thing to do. And in some cases it is. As we begin a new week, I challenge you to be open to ways you can serve others. Immediately. Without thought for your own disruption.

It’s going to be an interesting week. Let me know what you encounter!