Greatest in the Kingdom

Who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?

Matt18:1-6

At that time the disciples came to Jesus saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a child, had him stand among them, and said, “I tell you the truth, unless you turn around and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven! Whoever then humbles himself like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes a child like this in my name welcomes me. But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a huge millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the open sea.

Our primal instinct pushes us to want to be first in everything. It was the same with the disciples. They were so intent on doing everything they could to be everything Jesus expected of them. We see this attitude in every facet of our day to day life as well. We strive to be the best in business; the best Daddy/Mommy/Husband/Wife etc. This also encompasses our spiritual endeavors. Jesus refocused them back to the basics and back to the innocence of faith and acceptance. He also issues a dire warning to anyone that tries to mislead these children (I believe he meant spiritual children AS WELL AS the physical children).

We have heard that we should have the Faith of a Child. What does that mean? How can we overcome our prejudices and learned “intelligence” when we interact with The Creator and our brothers and sisters? Do we cast aside our experiences and literally become ignorant in our faith? Read on and let us explore the possibilities.

A child will learn and process information in a real and practical manner. This child will then apply that knowledge immediately as if it were the only acceptable response in an innocent and enthusiastic way. Regardless of the immediate outcome, this child will see the action as the correct perception of whatever the issue. If this child is taught something new and the new lesson can be combined with previously learned information. When a child encounters a challenge, they step forward with confidence that they have whatever they need to overcome the obstacle. Ask a child any question and they will provide the answer according to their limited knowledge and oblivious of “mature” variables and arguments (what if ‘s).

Have you observed children that had differences with each other? Regardless of the issue, once the heat is finished, they move on as if nothing has happened. Kids that are engaged in “mortal combat” end up as best friends forever, a few minutes later. Grudges are rarely held and the “bright-eyed” innocence try to learn everything they can about whatever their interests may be.

Children are always trying to please their authoritive figure(s). Whether it be parents, teachers or whomever is in charge of them at the time, kids glow at the drop of a kind word or praise. This child-like attribute should also be used when we seek God’s Will in our adult lives. We should seek the approval and smile of THE Creator.

One of the most despicable acts I can fathom is the abuse (regardless of the kind) of a child. It is the most certain way for me to react in an extreme response (that is my nice way of saying that I do not hold myself responsible for ripping the violator – verbally and/or physically - with no regard for the possible consequences). I think HE says the same thing toward HIS children as well. A modern analogy could be that HE would tailor a concrete swimsuit to those that knowingly mislead these innocent ones.

Might this be a lesson that we all should relearn and embrace as well?

May God Bless You and Yours

Gene