THE MEASURE OF GREATNESS
For who is greater, he who sits at the table, or he who serves?
Is it not he who sits at the table?
Yet I am among you as the One who serves.
Luke 22:27
The measure of greatness in the kingdom of God is vastly different from that of the world. Our society idolizes the rich, the powerful, the beautiful, and the athletic. We even make celebrities out of those who brazenly flaunt their immorality. Indeed, the world claims it is demeaning to serve others. However, God’s kingdom completely rejects the world’s measure for greatness, and instead gives the greatest honor to the ones who serve. The person who serves selflessly, lovingly, without complaint, and without seeking recognition is highly regarded in the kingdom of God.
When Jesus and His disciples entered the upper room, the disciples looked for a prominent place to sit. Meanwhile, Jesus looked for a place to serve. As they awkwardly waited to be served, Jesus took a towel and basin and washed their feet (John 13:1-15). We Christians like to refer to ourselves as servants, but we are rarely content to be treated as servants! Oftentimes, we are tempted to adopt the world’s measure of greatness. However, when we look to Jesus as our model, we see that it takes a far more noble character to serve than to be served.
Prayer
As you pray today, take a few moments to reflect upon your attitude about servitude. While the world will judge your importance by the number of people serving you, it is important to remember that God is more concerned with the number of people you are serving. If you are already a servant, then take a moment to thank God for the opportunities He has given to you to be of service to others. However, if you struggle to be a servant, then perhaps your heart has shifted away from the heart of God. Ask God to teach you selflessness and to give you the strength to follow His Son’s example. Amen.
Source:
“Experiencing God Day-By-Day; The Devotional and Journal”, by Henry T. Blackaby and Richard Blackaby ©1997. Entry June 23.
Additional Reading:
For The Lord, Not Men
Never Too Busy