When the disciples asked Jesus, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” they might have expected an answer like: “The most righteous,” “The one who reads Scripture the most,” or “The one who gives up everything to follow me.” It could have been the perfect moment to emphasize strict religious effort.
Instead, Jesus said, “…unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3–4).
Think of a small child, maybe a toddler. Healthy little ones are busy exploring. They’re always learning, experimenting, and finding new ways to use what they have. They depend on their parents without fear. Ordinary things fill them with wonder.
David often became “childlike” before God. Even in seasons of war, he wrote psalms full of awe at God’s greatness. He danced before the Lord with abandon. He cried out, not as a proud warrior, but as a child calling on a loving parent. He stayed open to God’s leading and will. The mighty fighter quickly became a small child before God—and it pleased God.
The disciples were drifting toward an adult idea of greatness—status, position, achievement. Jesus told them they were looking the wrong way. They had become too “grown,” forgetting that God wants children who look to Him with trust, amazement, and awe. That is greatness and wisdom in God’s eyes. That is the kind of person God delights to use.
The answer is not in striving, but in submitting—laying down our self-importance and becoming like little children before God. Being “grown” in our own eyes is a burden too heavy to carry; it leaves no room for God.
David wrote, “From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise [or strength]” (Psalm 8:2). The kingdom of heaven—on earth and in eternity—is open only to those who accept Jesus’ invitation to become the Father’s little children.
God bless you!
Pastor Janice Fareed-Hardy
