Who Is The Greatest?

At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Matthew 18:1.

This question that the disciples posed indicates to readers that they still had a lot to learn about what it truly means to be a minister. They were caught off guard with Jesus’ answer, He told them they had to become as little children to become great.

A few days ago, while I was teaching Sunday School, the children learned the story about Jesus telling the disciples to become like little children. This was such (and is) such a foreign concept for us to conceptualize. We try so hard to become someone of worth by the things we do, but to God, we become great when we have childlike faith and a servants heart.

Oftentimes, God’s perception of greatness is the exact opposite of the prestige and popularity we have envisioned. Jesus came to this world as a humble servant to seek and to save those who were lost.

The word minister means to serve; it is an action word. However, since the fourth Century it has become known as a position, rather than a call for every person to pursue. God has called you to do something amazing for His kingdom—He has called you to be His minister.

So, if we are called to engage in ministry, that means that everyone who is called has a place of service in God’s kingdom.

Following a call begins with:

1. Servanthood
2. Humility, which is a proper view of self.
3. Patience
4. Love for God and love for people.

Maybe you are unsure of where to begin in this quest of ministry.

• Start with your coworker who is going through marriage problems; ask her to meet you for coffee so she knows that she’s not alone in her struggles.
• Start with a backslider from church; text them an encouraging word or let them know that you miss seeing them in the house of God. Maybe invite them to a gathering at your home.
• Start with the stranger behind the counter at Target, who is noticeably having a bad day; tell them about a God who loves them and who answers prayers. Maybe go to the Starbucks counter when you check-out and purchase a $5-10 gift card and circle back to the cashier and say, “coffee is on me today.”

Whenever you feel unprepared, remind yourself that God desires you to become as a child; someone who is humble, innocent and willing to give love to anyone who will receive it.

My children are so innocent when they show affection toward me; their hugs and kisses are so special because they are unprompted and so pure. They have no hidden agenda for their affection, they just want to spend quality with with me. Today, find a secret place to spend time with your heavenly Father and pour out your affection and praise without an agenda. Worship Him for who He is and don’t be concerned with becoming the greatest, be more devoted with developing a true relationship with the greatest.