The pursuit of greatness is a common desire, but it often goes wrong due to the way people understand and use it. Many people reduce greatness to mere quantity and number, equate it to having and doing, which is contrary to true greatness and the teachings of Jesus. Jesus corrects this worldly thinking by setting a child as a reference point, stating that to be great is to be “by his side” and support Jesus’ mission.
To be great is to receive a child in Jesus’ name. It is not relying on external impressions or labels. Rather, it involves respecting even the small and insignificant, and accepting them gladly because they do so in the Lord’s name. Humility is the greatest mark of true greatness. It does not show off or dominate others. True greatness is not puffed up with haughty eyes and an arrogant heart, and the more one is high, the more they lie low.
True greatness also implies not being jealous or negatively competitive, or suppressive of the growth of others. For example, Jesus tells his disciples not to stop someone from casting demons in Jesus’ name because he did not belong to their group, as he is doing good in his name.
The message of greatness becomes very clear in the first reading. Job is a great example. He demonstrated faith and faithfulness even when he was tested and lost all his property and children. He persisted in being blameless and upright, fearing God and turning away from evil. This highlights the importance of understanding and applying the teachings of Jesus to achieve true greatness.
May God help us to foster an attitude of true Christian greatness.