Jesus realized the intention of their hearts
and took a child and placed it by his side and said to them,
“Whoever receives this child in my name receives me,
and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me.
For the one who is least among all of you
is the one who is the greatest.”
(Luke 9:47-48)
The intention of the heart to be great can be a profound and meaningful pursuit, especially when aligned with humility and a desire to serve others. In many faith traditions, greatness is often seen not in terms of power or status, but in terms of character and service.
For example, in Christianity, Jesus taught that true greatness comes from serving others and putting their needs above our own. In Matthew 20:26-28, He said, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
This perspective encourages us to examine our intentions and ensure that our desire for greatness is rooted in love, compassion, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others. It’s about reflecting Christ’s teachings in our actions and striving to live out our faith in practical ways. How do you see the intention of your heart aligning with these principles?
In the quiet moments of dawn’s first light,
A whisper stirs, a dream takes flight.
With humble heart and hands that pray,
We seek the path, the righteous way.
Not for glory, nor for fame,
But to honor a higher name.
In every act, in every deed,
To plant a seed, to meet a need.
Compassion guides our every choice,
In service, we find our voice.
With faith as strong as mountains high,
We strive, we reach, we touch the sky.
For greatness lies not in the grand,
But in the gentle, helping hand.
In love that’s pure, in truth that’s clear,
In every smile, in every tear.
So let our hearts with purpose beat,
In every challenge, in defeat.
With eyes on heaven, we embrace our fate,
The intention of the heart to be great.
Lord Jesus,
I come before You with a humble heart, seeking Your guidance and strength. You are the source of all greatness, and I desire to reflect Your love and compassion in my life.
Grant me a heart that seeks to be great in humility, always putting others before myself. Help me to serve with a selfless spirit, just as You served us with Your life. May my actions be a testament to Your love and grace.
Fill my heart with compassion, so that I may see the needs of those around me and respond with kindness and generosity. Let my words and deeds bring comfort and hope to those who are hurting.
Teach me to walk in Your ways, to be patient and understanding, and to strive for excellence in all that I do, not for my own glory, but for Yours. May my life be a reflection of Your eternal love and mercy.
Lord, I surrender my desires and ambitions to You. Mold my heart to align with Your will, and use me as an instrument of Your peace and love in this world.
In Your holy name, I pray.
Amen.
Pericope:
V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative
THE GREATEST IN THE KINGDOM / ANOTHER EXORCIST
Luke 9:46-48 / 49-50
Gospel Acclamation
The Son of Man came to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.
Gospel | Luke 9:46-50
46 An argument arose among the disciples about which of them was the greatest. 47 Jesus realized the intention of their hearts and took a child and placed it by his side 48 and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest.” 49 Then John said in reply, “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow in our company.” 50 Jesus said to him, “Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you.”
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
