July 17

Luke 9:46-50 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:

Journal Entry

Scripture

46 An argument arose among them as to which of them was the greatest. 47But Jesus, knowing the reasoning of their hearts, took a child and put him by his side 48and said to them, "Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me. For he who is least among you all is the one who is great."

Observation

An argument broke out among the disciples. They wanted to know who the greatest (or the most famous according to Message, the translation by E. Peterson) was among them. Did they think they themselves were able to figure it out on their own? Or were they expecting Jesus to pick one from them? It is also interesting to notice the timing of this incident. It was right after they failed to cast out the unclean spirit.

Jesus knew the reasoning of their hearts (v. 48). Yes, Jesus knew their thoughts. How is he going to “answer” the question? Again, the readers of the Gospel accounts are invited to observe Jesus’ brilliant way of teaching on the site. He takes the child, who is probably nearby in a reaching distance, and teaches the disciples that one who receives this child in his name receives Jesus, and whoever receives Jesus receives the Father. We know well this wasn’t an easy thing for them to do so. Why? Because children and women during Jesus’ time were overlooked and weren’t treated with dignity and respect, and receiving/accepting one of them could definitely mean less significant or important than they.

Application

I wonder what caused them to come up with such a topic and argue over it. I don’t think all 12 disciples tried to cast out the unclean spirit when the father brought the son to them (v. 40). At the most, a few tried and failed. Did it somehow cause them especially the ones who didn’t try to think they were “better” than others? Or they thought they were so great (Luke 9) that they wanted to distinguish the greatest one. Whatever the cause(s) was, I see spiritual pride in them, and I know I am not immune to this temptation of wanting to be recognized and praised by men. As a matter of fact, my sinful nature so naturally yearns for this sort of recognition and reward. Yet, Jesus is warning me today how my attitude should be in life and ministry. I must always be ready to accept and serve the least, the rejected, and the unrecognized for his sake (v. 48). In doing so, I become great for God even recognizes me (Matt. 25:37-40).

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank you for reminding me of how my attitude and posture must be in following you in life and serving you in ministry. I am fully aware of my shortcomings. I know I am more than capable of looking for recognition and praise of people that can easily lead to the seat of the prideful. Pray for an on-going work of the Holy Spirit to lead me to the path of a servant for your delight and your recognition. Amen.

--p. han