Wednesday, February 10

When I was a kid I loved football (okay I still do). Like many young boys, I would dream about playing in the NFL someday. My father’s favorite player was Chicago Linebacker Dick Butkus. My dad told me that Butkus was the greatest to ever play that position and one of the all time greats of the game. I remember imagining what it would be like to be called one of the all time greats. (Ahh, the dreams of our youth)

What does greatness look like in our culture? Achievement, wealth, fame, power, influence, etc.
Make a quick mental list of individuals you would consider to be “great men” or “great women”…

Now read and reflect on the following passage from the Gospel of Matthew…

Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave — just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” - Matthew 20:25-28 (NIV)

How does Jesus compare and contrast the leaders and rulers of the world with those who are “great” in the Kingdom of God?

When people come into positions of wealth & power they generally use their position to benefit themselves. (If you want evidence of this, just pay attention to the politicians of our own state) Very rarely, if at all, will someone use their power, wealth and influence purely for the sake of others with no consideration for how they will benefit.

Take a few moments to reflect on the fact that Jesus had all the wealth, power of the universe and the ultimate position in the universe, and He gave it all up. In fact He gave up His very life as a ransom for the world!

How different is Jesus from all others? How “great” is He?

Greatness in God’s eyes is measured by how much we give, how much we serve and how much we love!

Praise God for the Greatness of His love for you…

Ask God to give you a spirit of humility and service like His Son Jesus…

Jeff Frazier