38. Who is the Greatest? (Mark 9:30-37)

With Jesus' second announcement that he must go to Jerusalem to suffer, die, and rise on the third day, Mark now introduces another perspective on the kingdom to be established by Jesus. This kingdom rejects pomp and prestige, opting instead for humility and service, especially to those whom Jesus calls 'the least of these.' Jesus words have been transforming, and the history of the Christian movement has continued to distinguish itself with a force that seeks out those who seem to be 'least' for the special mercies of Jesus and his love.