“An argument started among the disciples as to which of them would be the greatest. 47 Jesus, knowing their thoughts, took a little child and had him stand beside him. 48 Then he said to them, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you all who is the greatest.” Luke 9.46-48
It seems like fame was going to the heads of the disciples. They were arguing, while among Jesus, which of them would be the greatest. Now this seems plausible since it was a bunch of men! Their egos were being stoked by the great success they were having while a disciple of Jesus. And although they would not dare have this conversation with Jesus, he knew their thoughts and was very aware of the issue.
Now Jesus could have rebuked them. He could have pointed out that he is God and that he’s the greatest, which he was and is. Or, he could have ignored the discussion and just let it go. Jesus is strategic and patient with his disciples as he is with us. He brings a little child and had this child stand next to him. Then, he said “whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you who is the greatest.” Mic drop.
Jesus was saying that whoever is least in the kingdom is the greatest. Jesus demonstrated his greatness by humbling himself to death. He who is seated at the right hand of God would become the servant of all humanity by taking up his cross and dying for the sins of the world. The child next to Jesus ga this image of humility. Children have no money, no power, no prestige and few possessions. In the kingdom of God, those who are the least are the greatest in God’s eyes.
Today’s a lesson about humility. It’s about the foolish disciples who thought they could select greatness while sitting at the feet of Jesus. And the Son of God had to remind them, as he does us, that all people matter. All people are precious in God’s sight. All are in his hands and under his care.
Let’s treat people today like Christ would treat them. Let’s value those who have nothing and see God’s image in all people. By his grace and for his glory.
“O Lord God, you are good. You love all people and want people to come into your kingdom. Help us now, Lord, to know the truth of your message and to surrender to your care. Help our children find significance in you. Draw the generations to your cross. Thank you Lord for loving me and for saving me by your grace. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen