Wait…What?

If you were told that the way up is actually down what would you say? But as the disciples were arguing amongst themselves as to who was the greatest among them. Jesus very clearly answered their question.

“I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. So anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven.” Matthew 18:3. Jesus is encouraging His disciples to understand that rank does not matter in Heaven. On top of faith and believing in the cross; it’s having a humble and sincere heart.

The disciples got caught up in rank and position and the advantages associated with them. Sometimes even as  believers it is easy to lose sight of the eternal perspective when you are chasing the earthly status. Children did not have a lot of stature in the days Jesus walked the earth. They were low on the totem pole when it came to rank in society. But yet here we have Jesus saying you need to be at the bottom, like a little child. When you are at the bottom you are the greatest. Whew, that’s a tough one.

I’ve rarely met a little child that is concerned with pride and arrogance. (That doesn’t happen until the age of 10 ). It’s highly unlikely a three year old is concerned about a title or rank. Why? Because children are humble and full of love.  As the mother of three children I remember what this looks like. Children are dependent on their parents, they love freely with no strings attached. They run to you when they are hurt or upset. Although sometimes stubborn they are teachable.  And children don’t care about earthly titles either; all they know you as is someone they love and depend on.

Jesus was often ridiculed for being surrounded by children. But he loved being surrounded by them despite the culture. He wasn’t worried about trying to improve His position. He loved being surrounded by those who were humble, meek, and willing to listen. “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” Mark 10:14-15

As we reflect on last week and move forward into the next; I encourage us to think about how we become more childlike. How do we become lower in rank so that we are actually the greatest? It’s a different mindset than what our culture teaches.

Love from Rooted,

Heather & Lisa