When I was a child, I used to imagine myself as a great baseball player. Whether I was playing ball with neighborhood kids or throwing the ball against the garage door, I was the best. In my make-believe games I dominated the opposition. The crowd adored me. Of course, I was only great in my mind. When it came to real games in Little League, I was only average.
When I grew up, I still imagined myself achieving greatness in my chosen endeavors. I quickly learned that I had to be somewhat ruthless and egotistical to gain an edge over others. Fortunately, I was not created with ruthless and egotistical genes, at least to the extent required to become great. So I had a good career in my field, but it could not be considered great.
As with so many things, Jesus has a different view of greatness. In Mark 10:42-45 Jesus said, “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. “
So Jesus turns the table on worldly culture. He says that we must become servers if we want to be considered great in God’s kingdom. What a radical idea then, as it still is today. Jesus not only spoke of greatness in this way, but He demonstrated this truth by giving His own life so that we might live. What more can be asked of a true servant who is the greatest among us.
Reluctant Retiree 