The Key to Greatness: Greatest in the Kingdom: Lent Week 3

“But whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” ~Matthew 5:19

The Key to Greatness in God's Kingdom

60 years ago, the heavyweight boxing champion of the world, Cassius Clay, told reporters in February 1964, “I am the greatest!” Clay was known for having a larger-than-life personality that only grew along with his success in the ring. When he made his major declaration to reporters, he wasn’t exaggerating; he had just defeated Sonny Liston for the heavyweight championship. Later, Clay became the world-famous pugilist Muhammed Ali, who proved many times over that he was, in fact, the greatest boxer.

Looking beyond the achievements of this life, Jesus taught what it meant to be the greatest in God's kingdom. Can that status be achieved by fame, power, or wealth? Is it about achievements, awards, honors, or recognition? Is it about being better, smarter, stronger, or faster than others? No, none of these things matter to God. In fact, being "the greatest" isn't a status to achieve but a way of daily practice.

Jesus said, "Whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of Heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called greatest in the kingdom of Heaven" (Matthew 5:19). What are these commandments? They are not just obligations and duties but opportunities and blessings; they are not just restrictions and limitations but invitations and possibilities.

Jesus invites us to follow Him and learn from Him, imitate His example, obey His teachings, trust His grace, and share His love. He challenges us to go beyond the letter of the law and embrace the spirit of the law, to go beyond the minimum and strive for the maximum, to go beyond the outward and focus on the inward.

But how? What is the one mode of living which ties all these together?

Humility is the key to greatness in God's kingdom. Humility is the recognition of our dependence on God, the acknowledgment of our weaknesses and the source of strength, and the willingness to admit our mistakes and seek forgiveness. We can mature in humility by making sacrifices, sharing our time, and understanding and encouraging others.

This Lent, let us ask ourselves: How can we cultivate humility in our hearts and lives? How can we follow the example of Jesus, who humbled Himself and became obedient to death, even death on a cross? Jesus became the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven, and He wants that for us too.

A Closing Prayer for Humility

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, you are the fulfillment of the law and the prophets. You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. You are our teacher, our savior, and our friend. Help us follow You faithfully and joyfully, keep Your commandments and teach them to others, and be humble in Your kingdom and in Your eyes. Amen.

Always improve the present moment.