“For he who is least among you all is the one who is great” (Luke 9:48 ESV).
Jesus corrected His disciples’ understanding of greatness. For they had been arguing about who among them was the greatest. Instead of rebuking them harshly, Jesus used a child as an illustration. In that culture, children had little status, yet Jesus declared that welcoming the lowly was equivalent to welcoming Him—and ultimately, the Father. Then, He stated a paradox: true greatness in God’s kingdom belongs to those who humble themselves, becoming least in the eyes of the world.
This teaching flips worldly ambition upside down. While society values power, influence, and status, Jesus teaches that true greatness is found in humility, servanthood, and childlike dependence on God.
If we want to be great in God’s kingdom, we must embrace humility. Instead of seeking recognition, we must serve others with hearts that desire God’s approval, not man’s. Today, let’s look for opportunities to put others first—whether by listening instead of speaking, encouraging someone in need, or serving in ways that may go unnoticed.
Are we willing to be “least” so that Christ may be seen as great in our lives? Are we willing to humble ourselves, so that the Lord may lift us up?
PRAYER: Dear Father, help us to realize true greatness by humbling ourselves before You. Teach us to serve others with joyful hearts, not seeking recognition but desiring to reflect Christ. May we find joy in putting others before ourselves, knowing that in Your kingdom, the least is the greatest. In Jesus’ name, amen.