Who is great in the eyes of God? Today’s gospel says, “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all.” Using that as a guide, name 5 people (besides Jesus) that would be great in the eyes of God. Mother Teresa would probably be near the top of the list. Martyrs and saints, probably, but name someone more contemporary. Mary Jo Copeland? Perhaps. And… and… and… hmm… this exercise may take a bit more time. Does that mean unless we are willing to give up our lives here and move to Calcutta, we will never be great to God?

Of course not! Mother Teresa and Mary Jo Copeland are very unusual in that they have achieved fame. There are thousands of people who are great in the eyes of God every day. We just rarely hear about them as they quietly go about their days doing what pleases God.

Each time our actions are motivated by love for another, God smiles at our greatness. It is when we act from a place of selfishness that we cause Him pain. Each day we are given many opportunities to be great. And when we fail, we must repent and try to do better. Then God forgives, forgets, and looks for us to be great at the next opportunity.