Greatness Is Childlike

In the middle of a conversation about power and influence with religious leaders, followers, and onlookers, Jesus did something unexpected - he pointed to a child.

“Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:4).

At the time, and for many today, children aren’t regarded as impressive or members of society to model our behaviors from.

Children don’t have impressive resumes.

They haven’t mastered many skills.

They ask “stupid” questions and will often say outlandish things.

Children are not “put together.” They ask questions… All. The. Time.

Children approach the world at face value. What you see is what you get.

And that’s exactly why Jesus chose them as an example.

Children approach life with genuine curiosity and authenticity. They haven’t learned to filter their joy or calculate their responses for maximum social or career advantage. They’re fully present in each moment, eager to learn, and unafraid to show their need for help.

Jesus’ teaching wasn’t about being childish or wild; it was about recapturing the genuine, open, vulnerable approach to life, embodied by kids, that so many of us often lose in our rush toward our own ideas of success and greatness.

Self Reflection

Where in my life and daily interactions might I use Jesus’ example and teachings to embrace a more humble, childlike openness and authenticity, regardless of my social status or life circumstances?