Dear Explorer,
Luke records that even as the disciples sat around the table with Jesus for this beautiful and sacred Last Supper, the disciples were still clueless that something profound was happening.
Read Luke 22:24-30
What were the disciples discussing (probably heatedly) around the table?
Let's look again at what Jesus says makes greatness. First, He says we should be like the youngest. Does that mean we should act childish?
In Jesus' day children were not protected and coddled and doted on like they are today. They were expected to work hard, say nothing, and stay out of the way! They had lessons to learn and they obeyed their elders without questions. With that definition of childhood, what do you think Jesus wants you to be like?
Then He says that we should serve others. That's contrary to what the world says. The world says that you are Numero Uno and you should take it easy and let others wait on you and pamper you. I don't know whether Jesus has just demonstrated serving others by washing His disciples' feet or whether this conversation might have prompted Him to do so. But either way, He had served these men for over 3 years. He didn't “lord” it over them, even though He certainly had a right to do so.
Then He reminds the disciples that even though serving may be hard at times, there is a reward coming.
So, are you great?