When is the last time you were in the presence of greatness?

In Cooperstown at the baseball Hall of Fame? Backstage at the Metropolitan Opera? At a meeting with amazing renowned scholars? At the United Nations among dignitaries from around the world? If you were at any of these places, you were in special company.

But when Jesus talks about true greatness in God’s economy, what does he say?

He says “He who would be great among you must be a servant.” And he doesn’t just say it once. It pops up throughout the Gospels in his words and his actions. We see him live it out, not only taking up the towel to wash the feet of his disciples, but then laying down his life as a ransom for the sins of the world on the cross.

I am in the presence of greatness a lot. Perhaps you are, too. Every Saturday morning I stand and pray with the workers at our food pantry who give up this precious weekend morning to work diligently to bless and encourage other people by distributing the generous contributions of food that are accumulated. Then every Wednesday night I look at my computer screen linked into our zoom prayer meeting. I realize I am in the company of people who give up time on their Wednesday night to pray with and for others. They serve God in praise and then intercede for the fullness of God‘s blessing on the church and the fulfillment of the great commission locally and around the world. You know, as I hear them pray, I sense that I’m in the presence of greatness. And then, as a pastor, I sit in the privileged place of knowing about untold acts of service and loving kindness in public and in private – both in the preparation of a ministry and then in the execution of it - to edify and build up others in Jesus name. I see it again and again - and I hope you do, too. I must tell you my heart is often overwhelmed with joy and wonder as I have the privilege to be alongside these people. I tell you, I feel like Jesus is right - and I am in the presence of greatness.

These people don’t do it for the praises of men. They do it because Jesus loves them, and now they love Jesus. And they love his church.

I pray that they feel His good pleasure and hear His voice saying “Well done, good and faithful servant.“ I pray that you are numbered among the “Great,” as well.

Musing’s from Pastor John, January 3, Click to Email Pastor John

Click Below for Pastor John’s sermon from January 3, “Be Careful. Practice What You Preach.” Matthew 23:1-14