S – But they were silent, because on the way they had been arguing with one another about who was the greatest. ³⁵ Sitting down, he called the Twelve and said to them, “If anyone wants to be first, he must be last and servant of all.”

Mark 9:34–35 CSB

O – Commentary: 

After sitting down, the recognized position of a Jewish teacher (cf. Matt. 5:1; 13:1), Jesus summoned the Twelve. He taught them the essence of true greatness: If anyone wants (cf. Mark 8:34) to be first, to have the highest position among the “great” in God’s kingdom, he must be the very last (lit., “he shall be last of all,” by deliberate, voluntary choice) and the servant of all. Here “servant” (diakonos) depicts one who attends to the needs of others freely, not one in a servile position (as a doulos, a slave). Jesus did not condemn the desire to improve one’s position in life but He did teach that greatness in His kingdom was not determined by status but by service

“Mark,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures

A – Servant leadership is known today, even outside the church in business, sports and other groups.  Jesus introduced a new concept and over time it became part of culture.  Why?  It is a reflection of the leader’s heart.  While their position is still elevated, their heart is to take others and elevate them as well.

R – Lord, I want to grow as a servant leader.  I want to leverage my gifts, talents and position to elevate others to their highest potential.  Give me the grace, empathy and wisdom on how to do this.  Help me to see others and situations so their opportunities can be maximized and achieved.