It's Always About Others

Scripture: At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Matthew 18:1

Observation: Jesus responds to this question by calling a child to him and stating everyone must become humble like the child in order to enter the kingdom of heaven. However, he then follows this up with four stories in succession:

-- A lesson about temptation - how we are tempted, and that we must not tempt others

-- The parable celebrating finding the one lost sheep, not the 99 who were never lost

-- Instructions on confronting others and having two or three believers in agreement

-- A parable about forgiving others for their debts/wrongs as we have been forgiven

In this way, Jesus explains the greatest in heaven ... one who radically cares about others. In so doing, that person is humble, ensures they do not tempt others into wrongdoing, seeks out those who are lost and hurting to help them, offers well-founded correction when necessary, and forgives all wrongs done by others. In the kingdom of heaven, greatness is about how we treat, love, and serve others.

Application: This is clearly a theme God is teaching me lately ... to continue to focus on my love of others as a way to mature as a Christian. I see this often now. My question today, then, is how do I do all these things?

I can avoid tempting others to sin by not behaving in a manner that causes anger.

I can actively seek out a hurting person and care for them instead of focusing on the entire crowd.

I can address specific issues with brothers and sisters in constructive ways instead of holding the concern within and perhaps gossiping about them.

I can absolutely let go of any wrong I feel I have received from others, knowing that God has forgiven me of so much more!

Prayer: Lord, I have no thought be being "the greatest" in the kingdom. I simply want to be a humble member of the kingdom. Please continue to aid me in softening my heart and improving my attitude toward others, so I may be humble in all ways. Amen.