The MET Church Houston, Texas

… and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home. (John 19:27)

As He completed His ministry on earth, one of the last directions of Jesus from the cross was to make provisions for His mother, Mary. As the oldest son in the Hebrew culture, he bore the weight of caring for his parents as they aged. Even in the most pivotal moment of mankind, when the only sacrifice that could sufficiently atone for our sins was made and in the midst of his pain and suffering, Jesus demonstrated a seemingly small act of servant leadership by directing John to care for Mary.

So, it is fitting to end this devotional journey of moving others into first place in our lives with this passage. As you seek to become second to those around you, putting yourself aside in humility, consider this important moment from the cross. There is no greater act of sacrifice than to lay your life down for another. Even in those moments, caring for our family is the supreme example of servant leadership.

As you continue on your journey beyond this series, ask God to continually place opportunities in your life to be second to those around you. In every situation and circumstance you face, be mindful of your leadership that comes from serving those in that situation with you. When we can face our challenges and lead others to Christ at the same time, we demonstrate His sacrifice in our lives.

Ask God to show you two or three specific ways you can demonstrate His love over the next weeks and months. On the notes page provided for this week, write those Next Steps out and commit to serve those around you. Let God continue to develop an I am second heart inside of you.