Daily Devotions
The Greatest in the Kingdom
Reading for October 15th: Mark 8-9
And he took a child and put him in the midst of them, and taking him in his arms, he said to them, "Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me, receives not me but him who sent me."
Mark 9:36-37
Who is greatest in the kingdom?
- The young mother who wipes noses, changes diapers, cleans messes, fixes meals, sings "Jesus Loves Me," reads about Bible heroes, and prays every night with her babies.
- The father who, after a long day at work, plays catch, checks homework, helps with projects, and teaches God's love to the precious souls God placed in his trust.
- The single mom who tirelessly lives every minute of her long day as both mother and father.
- The teacher who spends hours each week thinking of new and creative ways to teach and to apply God's Word for her pupils.
- The single man who goes fishing with boys who don't have fathers.
- The teen who volunteers time to mentor those who are younger.
- The grandparents who travel hundreds of miles to little league games, band concerts, award ceremonies, and graduations.
These people are great, not just because they help children but because of their motivation. All they do for children, all their service, all their love, all their concern, all their work, all their sacrifice, they do for the Lord. They receive children for Christ's sake, in his name, and for his glory. That is what makes them great.
Father God, thank you for these precious gifts. May we love, train, and serve them out of a love for you.