A Serving Leadership Insight from the Life of Jesus Christ (Mark 9:30-32)

“They left that place and passed through Galilee. Jesus did not want anyone to know where they were, because he was teaching his disciples. He said to them, ‘The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. They will kill him, and after three days he will rise.’ But they did not understand what he meant and were afraid to ask him about it.” (Mark 9:30-32)

In Mark 9:30–32 Jesus prioritized time with his disciples to further instruct them on his life purpose and prepare them for ensuing difficulties. The text notes that Jesus took measures to ensure their privacy and intimate fellowship. His primary commitment was to the twelve disciples. Repeatedly he had attempted to convince them of his future crucifixion and resurrection. Repeatedly they had failed to grasp his main message. His compassionate leadership primed the disciples for future benefit. Only after the fact did the reality of what occurred align with what they had heard earlier. Their assumptions of who Jesus was and hopes of what his leadership might produce—that is, overthrowing Roman rule—prevented them from obtaining a proper perspective. Serving leaders communicate their vision and profound concepts even if they remain unclear to their followers. In this case, clarity replaced obscurity only after Jesus modeled his life message. 

KEY QUESTIONS: What beliefs or assumptions prevent me from truly hearing and understanding another person’s vision? What does it take to become a better listener? With whom am I currently struggling to make my vision clear? How might I better model my vision?