Who is the Greatest?

Matthew 18:1

Disciples question: Who is the greatest? Jesus does not rebuke their question, but redefines the meaning of greatness.

Unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom. Whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

Little children are teachable. They want to learn.

Little children are not impressed by position. They are not out to seek honor from the world.

Little children realize their dependence for provision and protection. They ask their parents for everything they need and want. They run to their parents when they are afraid.

They don't moan the fact that they are children, and therefore dependent. They are happy being where they are.

Little children are sincere, unpretentious.

When Jesus says that the way to become great is to humble yourself, he puts greatness within the reach of all of us. No one is too ignorant, too poor, too poorly connected, too weak to humble themselves. On the other hand, no amount of energy, self-motivation, selfish ambition, drive, money, intelligence or connections can make one great in God's kingdom.

God asks us to humble ourselves, to come down off our high horse, to quit thinking that we are better than other people. He wants us to be teachable. To realize our dependence on Him. To ask Him for our needs and wants. To fly to Him for protection. To rest in His care.

Dear Father, I am so inclined to self-exaltation. Help me today to worship you. To realize my dependence on you. To come to you for all my needs. To honor all men as your creation. To despise not the least of them. In your Son's name, Amen.