Luke 22:24-27 Who Is Greatest

 And there arose also a dispute among them as to which one of them was regarded to be greatest.  And He said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who have authority over them are called ‘Benefactors.’  But it is not this way with you, but the one who is the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like the servant.  For who is greater, the one who reclines at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at the table? But I am among you as the one who serves.

It is a human tendency to elevate our position in the world.  Here the disciples are disputing who among them is “greatest.”  It is interesting to note that Jesus does not use this word to describe either himself or Father-God.  Earlier in this gospel, someone came to Jesus and called him “Good Teacher.”  Jesus tells him “Why do you call me good when only God along is good?”  Jesus calls God good and did not refer to Him as great.  Yet the disciples who are mere men dispute who among them is great!  Jesus draws them back to Kingdom principles when He points out that the servant is the best among them.

Daily Prayer:  Lord, why do people rate themselves in contrast to their brother or neighbor?  Are we so shallow that we need to appoint ourselves as the best one?  Let us be content with the gifts you have given to each of us according to Your will and use those gifts for the benefit of others.  In Your holy name I pray Amen.