Following Jesus Even When It Is Hard

22 Mar 2026 — St. Jesri HT Purba & AI
Children

Scripture: Mark 10:32-45

Children, have you ever joined a race? Sometimes when we run, we get tired. Our legs hurt and we want to stop. But when we keep running until the finish line, we feel happy and proud.

Following Jesus is also like a journey. Sometimes it is joyful, but sometimes it can be difficult. Yet Jesus invites us to keep following Him faithfully.

Questions:

  • Is following Jesus always easy?
  • Are we willing to follow Him even when it is difficult?

Background of the Text

In this passage Jesus and His disciples are traveling to Jerusalem. Jesus knows that He will soon suffer and be crucified. He tells His disciples that He will be rejected, mocked, and killed.

However, the disciples still do not fully understand. James and John are even thinking about positions of honor in God's kingdom. Jesus then teaches them that true greatness is not about power but about serving others.

I. Following Jesus Means Facing Difficulties

In Mark 10:33-34 Jesus explains that He will be handed over, mocked, and killed. The Greek word paradidōmi means “to be handed over,” often referring to suffering.

Jesus never hides the reality that the road of discipleship can include sacrifice.

Important lessons:
  • Following Jesus is not only about joy.
  • Sometimes faith requires perseverance.
  • Faithfulness is more important than comfort.

Parallel Scriptures:

  • Luke 9:23 – Anyone who wants to follow Jesus must take up his cross.
  • 2 Timothy 3:12 – Those who live godly lives may face challenges.

Transition: But suffering is not the final message. Jesus teaches something deeper about the heart of discipleship.

II. Following Jesus Means Learning Humility

James and John asked Jesus for the seats of honor beside Him. They were thinking about glory and status.

Jesus asked them, “Can you drink the cup I drink?”

The Greek word potērion (cup) symbolizes suffering or a mission given by God.

Lessons:
  • Following Jesus is not about seeking honor.
  • It is about humility.
  • We submit ourselves to God's will.

Parallel Scriptures:

  • Philippians 2:5-8 – Jesus humbled Himself and became obedient unto death.
  • Proverbs 22:4 – Humility brings blessing and life.

Transition: Jesus then explains what true greatness really means in God's kingdom.

III. Following Jesus Means Serving Others

Jesus said in Mark 10:43: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”

The Greek word diakonos means a servant who helps others.

Jesus Himself is the perfect example. In verse 45 He says: “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and give His life.”

Theological message:
  • Jesus models sacrificial service.
  • Greatness in God's kingdom is measured by love.
  • The cross is the greatest act of service.

Parallel Scriptures:

  • John 13:14 – Jesus washed the disciples' feet.
  • Galatians 5:13 – Serve one another in love.

Illustration

A young child once helped his mother wash dishes every evening. His friends asked, “Why do you do that? It looks tiring.”

He replied, “Because I love my family.”

When we do something out of love, even hard work becomes joyful. That is also true when we follow Jesus.

Applications by Age

1. Toddlers (1–5 years)

Application:

  • Share toys with friends.
  • Help parents with small tasks.
  • Learn to say “thank you” and “please”.

Activity:

  • Helping game – children practice helping each other.
  • Sing a song about Jesus' love.

2. Children (6–10 years)

Application:

  • Help at home.
  • Be kind to friends.
  • Pray when facing problems.

Activity:

  • Group game: “chain of kindness”.
  • Draw a picture of Jesus serving others.

3. Pre-teens (11–15 years)

Application:

  • Do not be ashamed of your faith.
  • Serve in church.
  • Be a good example at school.

Activity:

  • Group discussion about serving in daily life.
  • Create a small service project together.

Closing

Children, following Jesus is not only about miracles and happiness. Sometimes it requires sacrifice. But Jesus teaches us to stay faithful, humble, and willing to serve.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are we willing to follow Jesus?
  • Are we ready to serve others like Jesus?

Call to Response:

Let us say together: “Lord Jesus, help me follow You and serve others.”

Closing Poem:
A flower blooms in morning light,
Shining bright and pure and white.
Follow Jesus day by day,
Serve in love along the way.