Gospel: Matthew 18: 1-4
Another day, another contrast between Jesus and his disciples. Once again they come to him seeking status, power, and influence in the kingdom of God, which they perceive to be an earthly realm. And once again Jesus presents an entirely different view of God's kingdom and what is important, using an image that is utterly shocking to the people of his day.
Jesus sets before them a child and tells us this must be our model of status. A child had utterly no rights in ancient society - not all that different from our own. A child had no status or importance at all. It is this to which we must aspire in the kingdom of God. We are to assume the lowliest position on earth and provide humble service and mercy to others. That is what it means to be an authentic disciple of the Lord Jesus.
Jesus came to earth and set aside all divinity and power. He became a human being, born into the poverty of Galilee, rejecting the offers of power and wealth from the devil and from humans, rejecting the earthly title of king. The authentic disciple can be no less than the Master. It is for us to be lowly children - no status, no power - only the desire to serve others, show mercy, and love all we meet.
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