The Greatest

Scripture – Luke 22:24-26: 24Also a dispute arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. 25Jesus said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. 26But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.

Reflection: It’s amazing to me that, in this context – in light of what Jesus had just said – the disciples began arguing over who was the most important. I suppose it could arise as they looked at each other and tried to figure out who might be the betrayer Jesus mentioned. It’s easy to slip back into thinking I would never do that.

I was just reading this morning in a daily devotional guide called Men of Integrity about the danger of over confidence in my ability to handle temptation. There are some areas of my life I believe are heavily protected against Satan’s power. Yet I need to remember the protection is found in Christ, not in my will power or self control.

Jesus reminds me here to be humble – to serve rather than be served. It’s never a question of being the greatest. By the grace of God I have a place in the kingdom right now. Nothing can be greater than that.