Becoming Great (Mark 9:35)

The disciples of Jesus, who one day soon would be turning the world up side down with the gospel, struggled in their growth with Christ.  At one point, Jesus confronted them about their conversation about which of them would be the greatest.  Their debating didn't seem too promising for the hope of the world.  In response, Jesus said, "Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me." (Mark 9:37). Many are unsure as to what Jesus meant when he said these words.  Was he stating that those who reach children will be the greatest or is there a better explanation for his response?

It appears that the greatest people will be those who humble themselves to reach even the lowest of people.  Children did not have much to offer and those seeking to reach them would do so for the children's gain and not for themselves.  This action would take humility as explained by The Lord.  And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all. (Mark 9:35)

This humility and being the servant of all is not strictly limited to reaching children.  Children were the example that he used to illustrate the principle of greatness.  I do not believe that Jesus was teaching a cast system or different classes of society, but that those reaching out to others for the purpose of their betterment and not for personal gain or recognition would be those who are great.  Society is filled with such opportunities.  Many will seek to help those who can offer something in return while passing by countless hurting people.  How many seek to reach the addicted, abused, fatherless, social outcasts, terminally ill, inprisoned, and those bound in sexual sin?  They may not look good in the church or their presence may cause problems with the more "elite" members, but they still need to be reached.  If we are really honest with ourselves, we will recognized that under all of our sparkle and glitter, we were nothing better and just as needy when we came to Christ.

If you want to do something great, humble yourself and reach those who have nothing to give in return.  You will not only do something great, you will be someone great.

If you would like to read more of these thoughts in a hard copy format, my new book is now available at the link below.

https://www.createspace.com/4441566

To view other posts or to receive this blog by email, sign up at     drafusco.wordpress.com