In this weekend’s passage of the Holy Gospel, we find a description of “servant leadership.” Are you familiar with that term? “Servant leadership” refers to the type of “leader” Jesus was…not a leader interested in worldly power or fame, but rather a leader who was intent upon serving others and lifting them up. Jesus tells us that this kind of “leadership” is a criterion for greatness in His kingdom. The disciples were mistaken when they thought that real leadership came from “where you sat rather than how you served.” Jesus gave them (and us) a sharp rebuke when he reminded them that, those who follow the way of Jesus and seek to imitate his example of servant leadership must be willing to “drink His cup,” or suffer for others, as He did. The best place to begin the process of servant leadership or “self-giving," is in our own homes and in the workplace. We need to look upon our education, training, and experience as preparation for service to others. Whatever may be our place in society -- whether important or unimportant -- we can serve. Now, here’s a challenge…we should learn to serve with a smile! This is possible wherever we find ourselves, but it’s not easy. If we want to be leaders, then we must take on the qualities of availability, accountability, and vulnerability. This three-fold plan for servant leadership…availability, accountability, and vulnerability… will qualify us for God’s Kingdom. “Life becomes harder for us when we live for others,” says Albert Schweitzer, “but it also becomes richer and happier.” Muhammad Ali, the boxer, used to call himself “the greatest!" There was something comical about his arrogance. Once he declared: "I float like a butterfly, I sting like a bee." The story is told of him that once when he was on an airplane about to take off, the flight steward said, "Sir, would you please fasten your seat belt?" Muhammad Ali replied, "Superman doesn’t need a seat belt." The steward replied, "In that case, Superman doesn’t need an airplane to fly. Would you like to exit the plane now?" Today’s Gospel tells us of two of Jesus’ disciples who wanted to be supermen—to sit at the right hand and the left hand of Jesus in His kingdom-- to be the greatest, to be the first. Jesus informs them of what they really need to be in order for this to happen…servant leaders! Gospel Homework of the Week: Do people describe you as a leader…what kind of leader?