BYM ONLINE DESK November 2016 | Page 11

about leadership as well. When Jesus was talking about his crucifixion and death, they started to discuss about their future leader (Lu 9:31,46). Even on the day of the last supper, the disciples were arguing about 'Greatness' (Lu 22:24). How sad it is to find competition, lobbying, can vassing in the name of election in our Churches and organizations! People fight for the post of Chairman, Treasurer, Secretary and so on. Do you know what Jesus said to His disciples when they were fighting among themselves: Luke 9:47,48 - “But Jesus, knowing the reasoning of their hearts, took a child and put him by his side and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me. For he who is least among you all is the one who is great.” We should become like a child. Our haughtiness and ego should go. We should have the mind of Christ - to become smaller and to humble ourselves. Status and Popularity Sometimes we maintain a gap between certain group of people and call it as status. But Jesus identified Himself with the poor and needy. He touched the lepers. Today, many in ministry are not approachable by normal people. We find a lot of tele-evangelists who promote their ministry by showing that they are more powerful than others. “When I raise my hand, people fall.” is the testimony they want to establish. Is this the testimony you want to tell the world? To make people fall? What a pity? God hated this false pride and status. He was particularly hard on Pharisees and Sadducees. He hated this hypocrisy in the name of religion. Beloved, we should always stay humble and simple. Let us not run after cheap popularity. Servants of God, what should be our attitude? Luke 17:10 - “So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, 'We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.'” 1 Cor 9:16 - “For if I preach the gospel, that gives me no ground for boasting. For necessity is laid upon me. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!” Let us wear humility and fulfill our duties as faithful servants of Christ. (Transcripted from Mr. A. Lionel's message for the 45th Annual General Body Members of the Blessing Youth Mission held in Chennai - Part 1) |PAGE 11|