Heaven’s greatest!
Scripture reading for January 24: Matthew 18
“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
Fame, fortune and beauty define the greatest people in the eyes of the world. Therefore, the world is always seeking prestige from great accomplishments, earning large amounts of money, or being especially beautiful or handsome. All these accomplishments most often come with pride and promotion and competition for the top spots. Contests are set up, lists of famous people are made, and fortunes are totaled to determine the winners.
But Jesus’ disciples asked Him who was the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Their motive was probably to have Jesus confirm one of them in that role but Jesus took this opportunity to expand their world view. He found a child and had him put in their midst and made a bold statement. “Whoever humbles himself like this child is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” This was a challenge to their current self-centered view of being the greatest disciples. Not that this desire was bad, but the path to greatness was through humility and serving and learning God’s way of the cross. They were also warned to be careful that their worldly attitudes and actions might cause the children to go astray. This would bring eternal loss and judgment.
Are you currently seeking fulfilment through the world’s path of pride and accomplishment? Have you considered the children in your life that you are influencing? What actions will you take to respond?
Prayer: Father God, I confess that I have desired ‘greatness’ in this world system. Thank You for showing me my children and my need to become like a child and learn from You and them. Lead me today in the path of true greatness and humble service. Amen.
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