True Greatness

The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork.

(Psalm 19:1, NKJV)

We live in a very competitive world and there are champions for all manner of events.  The energy and excitement generated during a competition is electric, with the cheers and jubilation all the way.  This is a time when all participants and the fans speak of hope, there is an expectation of a win.  Some join the events for just the fun of it, not necessarily to win but to participate.  The plans to identify the winner are elaborate and recognition is often given in good measure, so that now we have such titles as: ‘Greatest Of All Times’ (G.O.A.T).  The joy and satisfaction of the winner is good energy to keep them going as they have set themselves as great in their trade.  On individual and family levels, competition for recognition is also seen.  At times it is subtle but the fact is that the competitive spirit lives on.  We note individuals being seen as great because of their ability to buy expensive things and unfortunately, this has hyped the desire for material show off since it is viewed as a marker of progress and greatness.  Others seeking to achieve the higher status, will pretend and so the saying, ‘fake it till you make it’.  While I appreciate that competition has a way of making us better, given that we want to achieve higher than where we are, it should not be at the expense of healthy relationships and values.  There is need for moderation when it comes to how far an individual is ready to go, just to be known as great.

It is interesting that even during the life of Jesus, His disciples were also competitive and they argued amongst themselves on who was the greatest (Luke 9:46).  Jesus knowing their hearts told them, that he who is the least among them would be the greatest (Luke 9:49).  In this answer, Jesus turned their thoughts from greatness as the world knows it to true greatness in the Kingdom of God.  Though each one of us desires to be great, we need to consider true greatness as determined by the word of God.  Our reference verse helps us to look at greatness from another angle, where greatness is not loud but is seen.  Nature has a way of manifesting the Creator’s magnificence, it speaks of His majesty and splendor, displayed for all to see and enjoy.  The might of its Creator is spoken of by the creation on display and so the wonder of creation in nature, helps us appreciate the incomparable greatness and wisdom of God (Psalm 104:24-27).  There is no way we can ignore that He who created nature as we know it, is a genius beyond our ability to fathom.  This is true and real greatness manifested, not loud or calling for attention but speaking in humility, a language which cannot be invalidated.

Beloved, greatness cannot be denied when it shows up, it commands awe and respect, it is a wonder.  This is true even in our daily lives, true greatness speaks in actions and not by words. Greatness is not just seen and revered but it gives, it does not demean others with pride but is humble in its interactions.   Robin Mark acknowledged the wonder of God’s might and greatness in the song “How great are you Lord, how great is your mercy”.  He captures a worship and a bowing to the revealed greatness of God, shown to us in ways that even those living in very humble environments can appreciate.  Beloved, each one of us has seeds of greatness within us, which helps us to reach out to others.  The question is how is your greatness experienced by those around you?  May the Lord help us to take the attitude that Jesus taught us, that it is in service of others that we become great.

Thoughts:

What is your reflection of this topic?

What are the attributes of those you think are great?

How do you want others to experience your greatness?