God’s Applause

Posted by Jimi Williams on Jun 7, 2010 | Comments Off

An argument started among the disciples as to which of them would be the greatest. Jesus, knowing their thoughts, took a little child and had him stand beside him. Then he said to them, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For he who is least among you all—he is the greatest.” Luke 9:46-48

This is a shocking encounter with Jesus. He was counter-cultural then and now. We want to “get ahead”. Jesus says “get behind”. We are striving to be the best. Jesus says strive to be the least. We are working to attain stature and stuff. Jesus says “give it all away and you’ll have treasure in heaven”.

The fact that we even ponder “Who is the greatest in the kingdom?” shows our sinfulness. One thing is for certain: as long as we are asking ourselves this question, the answer is not us.

It’s hard to correct our thinking in a culture that rewards success and honors achievement. This Scripture tells us that there will be many honored in heaven that the world never knew. It’s the man in Uganda who brings extra water several miles for a sick neighbor. It’s the lady in China who tears out part of her Bible to share with a friend. It’s the nursery worker on Sunday morning. 

There are no accolades for these people – no reward in this life.  But if you listening closely, you can hear the the applause of God Himself.