After a meal like none other, the disciples start having a dispute like

none other. It is really quite remarkable that even after Jesus has been

with them for so long and told them about his death that this argument

comes up. They begin to argue among themselves about who is going to be the

greatest! However, Jesus puts an end to that conversation quickly and turns

the definition of ‘the greatest’ right on its head.

The pagan lords, rulers, and kings really had an overwhelming pride. They

may have done good things but only to receive honour and be praised by

other people. They loved the names people called them such as ‘Lord’ or

‘Your Grace’. That was the common perception of what it meant to be great!

But Jesus says that followers of him are to have nothing to do with such

things. The way to greatness is to be like the least, the youngest. The one

who rules or is in leadership should be the one who serves.

General knowledge and common sense will inform us that the one who is at

the dinner table is the one who is greater. If you’ve watched any shows

like Downton Abbey you’ll know this almost instinctively! But Jesus doesn’t

just tell his disciples that it isn’t to be like this anymore but Jesus is

going to demonstrate it fully and comprehensively. He is the one who came

down to earth from heaven, in order to live among human beings, and

ultimately to die for us to serve us. He is the one who truly serves. And

so then if we want to be great, then we are called to follow his example.

MC

Questions

Right here in Australia now, what do we consider to be the traits of one

who is great?

What is Jesus’ standard of greatness? How has he demonstrated this?

How could you follow his example?

Prayer

Gracious God, thank you for the way in which you have served us through

Jesus. Please keep us from pride and keep us from seeking human greatness,

but help us to look for ways in which to serve others. In Jesus’ Name,

Amen.