Devotion

When Jesus asks his disciples what they were arguing about, they refuse to answer. Were they too embarrassed? Did they realize they had been wrapped up in worldly concerns instead of listening to what Jesus had to say? Are we any different? When we meet up with someone we often ask, “How are You?” Frequently the answer is, “Busy.” In many ways comparing how busy we are has become the modern-day equivalent of arguing over who is greatest.

Using a child as an object lesson, Jesus explains to his disciples that the true measure of status in the kingdom of God is to be powerless and vulnerable like a child. Jesus is introducing huge changes that define how his followers will live in the world. He is helping us understand that when the focus of our lives is on serving the helpless and weak, we will no longer need to strive for position and influence.