A Serving Leadership Insight from the Life of Jesus Christ (Mark 9:49-50)

“Everyone will be salted with fire. ‘Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can you make it salty again? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with each other.’” (Mark 9:49-50)

In Mark 9:49–50 Jesus finished his short discourse on minimizing offenses using salt as a metaphor. Salt both purifies and flavors food. In this context, to be salted with fire may refer to the purging process some leaders must endure to shape them for greater service. To avoid offending the “little ones” or personally stumbling, one needs to be purged of self-interest, pride, and lack of self-discipline. Adversity is sometimes God’s greatest gift to leaders because character is often developed in the crucible of suffering. To be formed in the image of Christ, no sacrifice is too great. Bearing his likeness enables us to add flavor to the lives around us. If we lose his seasoning in our lives, we can do nothing to season others. Furthermore, to be salted with Kingdom values prevents us from arguing over who is the greatest. In Jesus’ words: “Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with each other.” 

KEY QUESTIONS: When have I been purified by adversity with my character developed at a deeper level? How have difficulties in my life equipped me to season the lives of others? How has personal ambition or aspiring to greatness negatively affected leaders I know? How has it affected my leadership?