September 5, 2026 - Matthew 17-21

The thing that strikes me from these chapters is the constant jockeying for position and approval and prestige among men, even among the disciples.  The Pharisees sought to put themselves above Jesus by asking their trick questions (ch. 19), the rich young man sought self-justification (ch. 19), the laborers in the vineyard wanted more money (ch. 20), and even the mother of James and John wanted them placed at the right and left of Jesus in heaven (ch. 20).  Jesus, on the other hand, said of himself:  “The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (20:28).  And, now, with the triumphal entry (ch. 21), the story moves quickly toward its climax.  Jesus will give his very life in order to serve us and to save us!

“Lord, deliver us from self-serving attitudes and create in us servants’ hearts.”

O Master, let me walk with thee

In lowly paths of service free;

Tell me thy secret; help me bear

The strain of toil, the fret of care.

Help me the slow of heart to move

By some clear, winning word of love;

Teach me the wayward feet to stay,

And guide them in the homeward way.

Teach me thy patience; still with thee

In closer, dearer company,

In work that keeps faith sweet and strong,

In trust that triumphs over wrong:

In hope that sends a shining ray

Far down the future’s broadening way;

In peace that only thou canst give,

With thee, O Master, let me live.   --Washington Gladden (1879)