The late 1920s must have been quite a time to live in New York City. Three buildings were rising, floor by floor, from the pavement to the skies above. The architects were vying for the record of tallest building in the world and they weren’t above some sneaky tricks.

One month after 40 Wall Street set the record, the architects at the Chrysler Building watched as a shining 125 ft spire emerged from inside the upper structure. The spire was built in secret and pushed the Chrysler Building into first place.

The architects at 350 Fifth Avenue decided to modify their design, as well. They added several floors and a spire of their own. One year after the Chrysler Building’s crowning, The Empire State Building took the title and held it for more than 40 years.

A similar race to the top spot was happening among Jesus’ disciples. James and John request to be given special places of honor in the kingdom. The other ten apostles are indignant with the two brothers. Notice Jesus’ response:

And Jesus called them to him and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Mark 10:42-44, ESV

Jesus does not tell them to stop trying to be great. He doesn’t berate them for reaching for the top. He wants them to be racing to be the best… as long as the goal is biggest servant.

Martin Luther King Jr. called it the “drum major instinct” – that deep urge to be first in the parade. Jesus is taking that urge and turning it toward love. If Christians should be looking to outdo one another, the only way that lines up with the gospel is to “Outdo one another in showing honor” (Romans 12:10, ESV).

Let’s be the best. Let’s set new records. Let’s reach new heights. Unlike the builders of skyscrapers, we won’t be working in steel and concrete. Unlike the corporate ladder climbers, we won’t be working in fancy resumes and power politics.

We can strive to be the best at things like love, honor, and service. By getting down into the servant posture, we are getting closer to the top.