“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.” -Matthew 18:1–4
Greatness. It is the pursuit of our life and culture to be great, to be recognized as better, as having arrived and obtained success. It is so central to the human experience that Western culture has redefined greatness, calling all things great as long as you feel like you deserve it.
Even among those who claim the Christian faith, our drive for greatness is just as consuming as our culture's. We shape a persona of perfection over our brokenness. Better schools, bigger churches, financial success, more influence—all are pursued so we can be great; we just veil it in religious language to give us a sense of redeeming greatness.
But Jesus shatters our preferences and pursuits as he flips greatness on its head. The greatest is not the scholar or the celebrity; the greatest is the one humble like an innocent child. Even at reading this Bible passage, we can manipulate the message to suggest that humility is something for me to muster up to be great.
This humility, though, is a reflection of the good news of Jesus. Jesus is saying, “Be who you are—needy, incapable, and vulnerable—and come to me.” Trust in him, look to him for direction and provision for life. Set aside human endeavor and status and rest in his greatness. Rest in his humility to set aside his life for you.
That is not only the way of salvation, or entry into the kingdom of heaven; it is also the whole life of those that believe in Jesus. Humbly trust and rest in Jesus.
Today, set aside your vain pursuits, be honest about your situation, and run to Jesus, the one who is truly the greatest.
