The Gospel for this Sunday (Mark 9:30-37) has two distinct but related themes: Jesus' upcoming death and true greatness among His followers. In Mark 9:31, we have the second of three predictions of His passion, death and resurrection within three chapters. Christ emphasizes that His ministry is the way of the Cross. This teaching is not one which His closest disciples understood or were ready to accept. They were still focusing on the external glories and triumphs that they expected.
A similar misunderstanding is reflected in the second section of this Gospel. The Twelve wish to hold great positions in the Messianic kingdom. Again they focus on external glory. Our Lord, however, points to a different view of greatness- one based on humility and service. Receiving a child in Jesus' name is more important than great worldly titles and honors.
Thus, the Gospel points us to Christ's way, the way of the Cross. Spiritual and moral greatness are not to be confused with worldly standards. Jesus Christ did not come as a worldly conqueror, and He did not encourage His followers to seek worldly glories. Instead, He came to accept the way of the cross. He resisted and rebuked those who would distract Him from His mission, and He encouraged His disciples to follow Him in the way of humility and service.
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