Mission Briefing
The Upside-Down Kingdom
In most games, being first means you win. But Jesus taught something totally surprising – in God’s kingdom, the greatest people are the ones who choose to go last! Let’s find out why. This mission explores Mark 9:35.
What Does Mark 9:35 Mean?
Jesus’ disciples were arguing about who was the most important – kind of like fighting over who gets to be team captain. Jesus sat them down and flipped everything upside down. He said that in God’s kingdom, greatness isn’t about being the boss or getting the best seat. Greatness is about being willing to serve everyone else, even the people who seem small or unimportant.
Hero Challenge
This week, practice “going last” in at least three situations – letting someone else go first in line, choosing the smaller piece, or giving up your seat. Notice how it feels. Does it get easier the more you do it?
Did You Know?
In the time of Jesus, servants were considered the lowest people in any household – they had no status at all. So when Jesus said “servant of all,” His disciples were probably shocked! He was completely redefining what it means to be great.
Ages 4-6: Little Hero Question
Can you let someone else go first today and see how it feels?
Ages 7-9: Growing Hero Question
Why do you think Jesus said that the person who wants to be first should be last? What was He trying to teach His friends?
Ages 10-13: Champion Question
In a world that celebrates people who push to the front, how can you live by Jesus’ upside-down rule? What does that look like at school or on a team?
♥ Mission Prayer
Jesus, You showed us what true greatness looks like by serving everyone around You. Help me stop trying to be first all the time and start looking for ways to serve others. Give me a humble heart like Yours. Amen.
