In the heart of human nature lies a persistent yearning for prominence, a quest for power and recognition. Even among those following the path of Christ, the allure of greatness can sometimes overshadow the true essence of discipleship. In Matthew 18:1-5,10,12-14, Jesus confronts this human inclination head-on, offering us a profound challenge to our understanding of greatness, significance, and purpose driven life.
The disciples, caught in the worldly pursuit of superiority, ask Jesus, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Their question reveals a mindset rooted in competition rather than service. In response, Jesus
performs a seemingly simple yet revolutionary act: he places a child in their midst. It is in this innocent,
vulnerable being that he unveils the kingdom’s true measure of greatness. Jesus fully lived what he is teaching us here. In Him, God humbled himself, became an infant in Nazareth, and shared our humanity in all things except sin. Jesus elaborated on his teaching here during the Last Supper with His disciples. His message can be captured by his statement: “I am among you as the One who serves.” (Luke 22:27). Thus, Jesus teaches us that greatness lies in humble service rendered to others in line with his teachings.
Humble Service
The question of the disciples became an opportunity for Jesus to teach us the condition for entering the
Kingdom of God: “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, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”
These words are radically opposed to worldly wisdom. Jesus is not advocating for childishness but for the
qualities embodied by children: humility, trust, and a sense of wonder. To enter the kingdom, we must shed our pride and embrace a childlike dependence on God, our Father. We must become like the little ones, open to learning, devoid of pretense, and utterly reliant on God. Seeing God as a Father radically changes our relationship with Him and others.
Shed Our Pride
Jesus further emphasizes the value of the “least” among us. He likens them to a lost sheep, for whom the Good Shepherd leaves the ninety-nine to search tirelessly. The angels of these little ones constantly behold the face of God. Their significance in the eyes of Heaven is immeasurable. “So, it is not the will of my Father who is in Heaven that one of these little ones should perish.”
This declaration is a solemn reminder of the infinite worth of every human soul. It is a call to action, urging us to protect, care for, and advocate for the vulnerable. This is an urgent call in the face of cases of child abuse, and lost children. To harm or neglect even one of these precious ones is to grieve the heart of God.
The Last Shall Be the First
In essence, Jesus inverts the world’s hierarchy. The last shall be the first, and the humble shall be exalted. True greatness lies not in power or prestige but in love, service, and humility. It is found in embracing the
marginalized, defending the innocent, and becoming like children in our reliance on God.
Let us heed Jesus’ words and strive to embody the spirit of the child. May we find in their innocence a mirror reflecting our own transformation, bearing in mind that “blessed are the pure in spirit, for they shall see God.” May we become instruments of God’s love, extending compassion and care to all, especially the least among us. For in doing so, we truly become great in the kingdom of Heaven.
