Welcome back from the holiday break—this is our first Lamplighters episode of 2026! In Lesson 12, Meredith Weatherby and Lynn Adams walk through Mark 9:30–50 as Jesus shifts from public ministry to focused, intentional teaching of the Twelve. Jesus predicts His death again, and the disciples respond… by arguing about who’s the greatest.

Jesus turns their definition of greatness upside down: the first must be last, the greatest must be servant of all, and welcoming the “least” matters more than winning status. The conversation then moves to a surprising moment of gatekeeping (“He’s not one of us”), and Jesus dismantles the disciples’ hierarchy mindset—reminding them that God’s kingdom is bigger than their circle. Finally, Jesus uses vivid, sobering imagery to press the seriousness of sin and stumbling blocks, calling His followers to spiritual clarity, humility, and faithful living.

Meredith closes with a simple challenge: don’t aim to be impressive—aim to be faithful. This week, pray for one name and one tangible way to serve.