Wednesday July 8, 2020

Today’s Reading: Matthew 18:1-5

  Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child-this one is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 18:4

Meditation: Jesus calls us to be humble. When the disciples ask Him who the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven is, Jesus answers by directing the disciples’ attention to little children. He would have been right to point to Himself as the Greatest in Heaven. Instead, He exemplifies His teaching by drawing the disciples’ attention away from Himself and onto some of the least in society. During this time, children were seen more as property than individuals, much like livestock were viewed. Jesus shows His disciples that in order to enter the Kingdom of Heaven, one must be willing to humble themselves to the lowest of places.

While the disciples seek to compare themselves to the greatest in Heaven, Jesus compels them to bring themselves low. His own humility in leaving His heavenly throne, walking the earth in human form, and suffering and dying on the Cross prove the degree of Jesus’ unmatched greatness.

Why does Jesus call us to be humble? To be humble is to bring our attention away from ourselves and onto God. It is to realize who we are in comparison to Who He is. It keeps us thinking highly of God instead of highly of ourselves. To be humble is to remember that there is Someone far greater than us. The gates of Heaven are opened to those who bring themselves low in the presence of Jesus, Who is the Greatest in Heaven.

Prayer: King Jesus, I humble myself before You. Your example of humility and grace is unmatched. You began in the highest of places and willingly made Yourself low for my sake. Thank You Lord. I pray that You keep me humble, that I would always think about Your greatness instead of seeking my own. Help me to remain focused on You in all situations. In Your Precious Name I pray, AMEN.

Thru the Bible in a year (credit: Biblestudytools.com): Matthew 18:1-20; Numbers 5-6; Ecclesiastes 5