The Greatest!?!

Scripture: Matthew 18:1-9 Click here for the reading

Observation: In the discussion regarding the greatest Jesus uses a child to illustrate his point.  Children were vulnerable, without status, and very dependent.  It might appear disconnected what Jesus is attempting but in the world the disciples lived his point was very clear.  Jesus did not tell his disciples to have faith like a child.  He didn't tell them to pray like one of these children. No, he told them to become like one of these children. “Whoever humbles themselves like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven” 


Application: While the disciples argued about who was the greatest Jesus flips the script on them.  They are thinking greatness involves, position, power, and independence.  Yet Jesus shows them a child who is dependent as they come.  His point is that we are to become like one of these children, completely dependent upon God.  This is who is the greatest in the kingdom.  


Along with the disciples I struggle with this.  I can't get over feeling like I am able to accomplish things for myself.  I want to be in charge of my life and my money, and my stuff, and my family, and my church. But I am not.  This is a fitting lesson for today, Ash Wednesday.  A tangible reminder of our dependence upon God in the form of ashes (that we came from dust and we will return to dust) and the cross (the road Jesus travels and shows the world his own dependence on God in matters of death and life).


Prayer: Lord, help us to become like one of these little ones that demonstrates utter dependence for their lives.  May we learn to trust you so that we might do the same.