The Path to Greatness

 

At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” And calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them and said, “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea.” (Matthew 18:1-6 ESV).

 

It should not surprise us that the disciples approached Jesus with a question about greatness. Many people have the same obsession today. We have even dedicated a new acronym in recent years to describe the greatest of people. We call them the “GOAT”, or simply the greatest of all time. Greatness is certainly a worthy goal to pursue. Jesus knowing this to be true was ready with an answer to their question. Jesus called a little child to stand in their midst. And he underscored his point with “Truly I tell you …” (a “Listen up!” expression). Then he explained that they needed to change and become like children—not childish, of course, but recognizing that they need God’s care and provision constantly.

 

To be childlike is to be trusting, truthful, and teachable. And unless they became that way, they wouldn’t even be part of God’s kingdom. Kingdom life is about service and humility. No one has a reason to think they are greater than another. Childlike, kingdom members accept God’s love, and, knowing the joy of being loved, concentrate on being loving. Trusting in God’s love, they also know God is working all things for good in every circumstance (cf. Romans 8:28).

 

Like a child, a truthful person needs no pretentiousness. It’s all a matter of being humble and honest, admitting that we can be weak and sinful and need God’s help always. And, of course, humility means being teachable. Children are curious; they want to learn. Similarly, there is no end to learning about faithful discipleship. What better time could there be than during this season of prayer and reflection to examine our need to be great disciples!