We typically associate “glory” with things like knights on horseback, Jesus radiating beams of light, heaven, success, victory, triumph, parades, and record breaking. That’s “glory”. At least, that’s one way to define glory. I think Jesus would actually have a different definition.

     Kings are, by definition, glorious people. They really define what glory is. That’s why most kings present themselves as victorious, triumphant, radiating light and power. But our king didn’t do that. Our king modeled a different understanding of glory.

     Mark 10:42-45, “42 So Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. 43 But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. 45 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” 

     Jesus says that in the world, your “glory” level is shown in how much authority you have. But in here, in the church, your “glory” level is shown by how much you serve. Those who are last are first here. And those who present themselves as triumphant, radiating light, successful, and first, will be last. Why? Because when our king came to earth, the “glory” he demonstrated was service and sacrifice. If our king served, then we should define service as glorious. 

     When you volunteer, you are doing something glorious. I know it may not feel like it at that time. But you’re doing exactly what our king did. And in our church, you are the ones with the glory and we will try to better imitate you. Thank you!