Verse: Matthew 18:1-5
“At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, ‘Who then is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?’ He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.’”
Devotion:
In this passage, we find the disciples wrestling with a common human concern: the desire for greatness, to be “the best”. It’s a question that resonates through the ages — who is the greatest? Jesus responds in a way that surprises and challenges their understanding of greatness. Instead of pointing to titles, achievements, or power, as they may have expected, He brings a child into their midst.
Children embody simplicity, trust, and humility. They approach life with open hearts and minds, free from the burdens of pride and self-importance that often plague adults. In calling His disciples to become like little children, Jesus invites all of us to shed our egos and embrace a posture of humility and dependence on Him.
To “change and become like little children” is to recognize our own limitations and need for God. It’s about letting go of the need to prove ourselves and instead, resting in the assurance of God’s love and grace. In a world that often values status and success, Jesus flips the narrative, teaching us that the path to true greatness lies in humility and servanthood.
I don’t know if this truth hits you like it hits me, but it feels so freeing. In our culture, it feels like a constant race to be the busiest, the most productive, the most overworked, the most tired, etc. doesn’t it feel freeing to know that Jesus not only gives us permission to step outside of the “rat race” but actually encourages us to break from culture and take our cues from that of children instead. I’ve never heard children have a conversation about being so tired because they were so busy with xyz during the week. So friend, take this opportunity to feel the freedom Jesus is offering. Take it back to simple basics. Slow down. Prioritize simple faith and humility. Remind yourself what it feels like to just simply talk to Him and depend on Him throughout your day, just as children need their parents. Take time to reflect today, choose one thing you can intentionally do to better reflect the heart of a child.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the reminder that true greatness in Your kingdom is not measured by our achievements or status but by our humility and willingness to serve. Help me to embrace a childlike faith, trusting You completely and welcoming others with open arms. Help me to see the opportunities around me to embrace the freedom You offer and to adopt the spirit of a child. May I reflect Your love in all that I do, and may I find joy in the simple act of loving and serving those around me. Amen.
Author: Becca Artymenko
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