08/31/2026
Kingdom Greatness
The first in the eyes of Jesus are those willing to be last of all and servant of all.
The disciples had been discussing among themselves who was the greatest. Even though they walked with Jesus daily, they had temporarily lost their focus on their calling and mission. They were concerned with position, while Jesus was concerned with servanthood.
Jesus then took a child into His arms and taught them that whoever receives such a child in His name receives Him, and not only Him, but the Father who sent Him. In other words, don’t overlook those the world considers least. Jesus doesn’t.
In that culture, children possessed little social status or influence. Yet Jesus placed a child right in the middle of the disciples and redirected their understanding of greatness.
So, what kind of greatness are we pursuing?
Are we seeking worldly greatness or Kingdom greatness? Are we striving to be first in a world that is temporary, or are we pursuing the greatness Jesus defines, being last of all and servant of all?
Our greatest concern should not be our status before the world, but our faithfulness before our Savior. Kingdom greatness is measured by humility, faithfulness, and service.
Don’t let opportunities to humbly serve God and others pass you by. Be encouraged and pursue what it means to be “first” according to Jesus.
To Do: Look for Someone to Serve
This week, intentionally serve someone who cannot advance your status, repay your kindness, or give you recognition.
Notice the person others may overlook. Speak to them. Encourage them. Help them. Pray for them. Serve them, not so others will notice you, but because Jesus notices them.
Ask yourself: Who can I put before myself today for the sake of Jesus?
Be last. Serve all. Follow Jesus.
