Greatness Is Empathetic

“You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you” (Mark 10:42-43).

So often our idea of leadership is about asserting dominance and wielding authority; Jesus on the other hand revealed a radically different approach to greatness.

Jesus chose a path that seemed almost counterintuitive, especially to many of those around him. He showed that true influence doesn’t come from throwing your weight around or flexing your authority - it comes from genuine empathy, authentic care, and intentionally seeing people and going toward them.

Instead of building a platform or demanding attention, Jesus moved quietly through communities, transforming lives through genuine relationships.

He didn’t network with the powerful or chase prestigious connections.

He sat with the overlooked.

He listened to the ignored.

He gave dignity to those society had dismissed.

Jesus’ approach to influence and greatness wasn’t about commanding rooms or dominating conversations - it was about creating spaces where others felt seen, heard, and valued, demonstrating great love in those moments.

When he had opportunities to grasp power, he chose instead to empower others.

His visible leadership wasn’t built on titles or positions, but on authentic relationships he cultivated and the lives he transformed through his genuine care and concern.

Self Reflection

How can I use my voice and whatever influence I have - whether it seems significant or small - to model Jesus’ way of leading, serving, and being with others in my own life?