We think we need to justify our existence by our performance. The big problem with that kind of thinking, of course, is that it gets in the way of relationship. It keeps us from being real. We feel the need to cover up and wear a mask, and play act and pretend, which is the exact definition of a 'hypocrite,' which is what Jesus called the Pharisees. We are never satisfied to just live in the now with what God has given us.
So, Jesus said the antidote to this kind of twisted thinking is to lower yourself and serve, which paradoxically does the opposite of what we think. It actually raises us up.
“Whoever wants to be first must take last place and be the servant of everyone else.”
You want to be first? Take the posture of a servant.
