True greatness

Diotrephes, a church leader, didn't want other people teaching at his church because he wanted to be the 'main man' (see 3 John 1:9-10). Even Jesus' disciples argued over who was the greatest, and they all hoped Jesus' answer would be 'You.' It's human nature to want to be the first or best in some way. But Jesus' answer to his disciples' greatness-quarrel was quite different, and probably a little ground shaking: 'He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Therefore, whoever takes a lowly position of this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven"' (Matthew 18:2-4 NIV).

Diotrephes wanted to be skilled, a leader, the best in a certain circle... but that can be risky, even with the best of intentions. That sort of power can tempt us to want to protect our own 'greatness'.

Jesus is not interested in how much education or prestige we have. What he's interested in is the childlike trust and eagerness with which we approach him. By letting go of our own abilities and triumphs, and approaching God like a child, we'll allow him to lead us to our true, maxed-out capabilities, in his way, and for him.



So what now? What are you great at? Own it, and don't be afraid to acknowledge that you're skilled. But use it for the good of others.





— SCRIPTURE —

'Who, then, is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?' Matthew 18:1 NIV
— SOULFOOD —

2 Cor 1-4, Mark 16:1-8, Ps 68:1-18, Pro 25:13-16