all eyes on jesus | the greatest

They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the road?” 34 But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest. Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.” He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.” Mark 9:33-37, NIV

The disciples, walking with Jesus, engage in a heated debate: “Who among us is the greatest?” Their ambition reveals a deeply worldly mindset, a need to seek power and prestige. Jesus, ever perceptive, addresses their misguided notions and focus. Setting a child in the middle of them he says, "If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all."

In this counter-cultural message, Jesus challenges our understanding of greatness. He urges us to embrace humility, selflessness, and develop the heart of a servant. The child symbolises vulnerability, innocence, and dependence - qualities that are the essence of our relationship with the Father.

To be the greatest, Jesus tells us we must serve others without seeking recognition or status, to love and elevate those around us. It's not just a call to set aside pride and selfish ambition; it’s a call to become increasingly like him.

From time to time I come under a bit of pressure to promote myself or make a big thing about my achievements. In response, I use the phrase, “I have nothing to prove”. In saying that, I’m not declaring to the world that I’ve got it sorted, or that I have nothing to achieve because I’ve done it all. I’m reminding myself that I’m not in competition with another soul. I am loved by Jesus, not because of what I do but simply because he loves me.

Greatness isn’t found in accolades or power but in a heart that loves and puts Jesus first. His Kingdom operates on a different paradigm: not power, but service.

Let's pray
Dear Lord, help me embrace compassion over competition, service over status, and love for others over love of myself. Would you take me in your arms today and teach me what it is to truly serve you. Amen.