Who is the greatest
The question “Who is the greatest?” echoes a key theme found in the Gospels, especially in the teachings of Jesus. In the context of scripture, this question arises when Jesus’ disciples ask Him, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” (Matthew 18:1).
Jesus responds by calling a child to stand among them and says, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:3-4).
In this passage, Jesus redefines greatness. The world often sees greatness in terms of power, status, or wealth, but Jesus emphasizes humility, simplicity, and dependence on God. He points to the trust and purity of heart that a child embodies, inviting His followers to live with a similar spirit of humility and reliance on God.
In the spiritual exercises of Ignatius, this theme aligns with the call to indifference—not seeking greatness in worldly terms, but being free from attachment to anything that doesn’t lead us closer to God. Ignatius invites us to focus on serving others, rather than on seeking positions of honor or power.
How does this idea of humility and childlike trust resonate with you today? Are there areas in your life where you feel drawn to reconsider what “greatness” means in your own spiritual journey?
There are several instances in the Gospels where the disciples dispute among themselves about who is the greatest. One notable example is found in Luke 22:24-27, where, during the Last Supper, the disciples argue about which one of them is considered to be the greatest.
Here is the passage:
“A dispute also arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. Jesus said to them, ‘The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves.‘” (Luke 22:24-27)
This dispute comes at a crucial moment—the Last Supper, when Jesus is about to offer Himself for the salvation of humanity. Yet, His disciples are still caught up in worldly concerns, seeking status and recognition.
Jesus responds by turning the idea of greatness on its head. He contrasts the worldly notion of greatness, where leaders “lord it over” others, with His model of greatness, which is defined by service and humility. “The greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.“ He even points to His own example, saying that although He is their Teacher and Lord, He is “among you as one who serves.”
This teaching echoes other moments in the Gospels when Jesus emphasizes that greatness in the Kingdom of God is not about power or position but about service, humility, and self-giving love. For example, in Mark 9:33-35, after the disciples argue about who is the greatest, Jesus tells them, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.”
In the context of Ignatian spirituality, this passage invites us to reflect on how we are called to serve others, particularly in ways that do not seek recognition or reward. It challenges us to examine our own desires for status or control and to instead cultivate a spirit of generosity and humility.
How do you think Jesus’ call to servant leadership speaks to your life and the way you approach relationships or responsibilities?
A meditation on humble service
An insigntful meditation on how the humble service of others makes us feel great… as long as we do not assume we are the greatest
Reflecting on how humble service brings a sense of fulfillment and inner greatness is truly powerful. In the act of serving others, we often experience a profound sense of purpose and connection, not because we’re seeking recognition, but because we’re aligning ourselves with God’s will.
When we serve others without seeking to be “the greatest,” we imitate Christ, who served without regard for His own status. This humility allows us to experience greatness in a new way—greatness that is rooted in love, selflessness, and the joy of giving.
Here are a few thoughts for your meditation:
- Freedom from Ego: When we serve without the need to be acknowledged as “the greatest,” we free ourselves from the bondage of pride and ego. This allows us to be fully present in our service, offering our love and time purely for the sake of the other.
- Finding Greatness in Others: As we serve, we begin to see the greatness in others—their dignity as children of God. This changes how we perceive both ourselves and those around us, creating a deeper sense of unity.
- The Joy of Serving: There is a quiet joy that comes from humble service. It’s the joy of knowing that in some small way, we are part of God’s greater plan, reflecting His love in the world.
- Avoiding the Trap of Self-Righteousness: Sometimes, even in our service, there’s a temptation to feel superior. True greatness comes when we remain humble, remembering that it’s only by God’s grace that we can serve in the first place.
As you meditate on this, you might ask:
- How does serving others, without expecting recognition, bring me closer to God?
- Are there moments where I feel tempted to take pride in my service? How can I return to a place of humility?
- How does Jesus’ example of servanthood challenge my understanding of greatness?
May this reflection deepen your spiritual journey and help you find joy in serving, without the need to be considered the greatest.
Symbolism of the child, the washing of feet, and God’s law and will
Let’s look into the symbolism of the child, the washing of feet, and God’s law and will in this context. Each of these holds profound meaning in our spiritual journey, and they reflect different aspects of our relationship with God and His divine order.
The Symbolism of the Child = God’s Paternity
The image of the child appears throughout the Gospels and is often linked with themes of humility, trust, and dependence on God. In Matthew 18:3, Jesus tells His disciples:
“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Children, in their innocence, represent complete trust in God’s paternity. They are utterly dependent on their parents, just as we are invited to be dependent on God. This dependence isn’t a weakness but a recognition of God’s ultimate authority, care, and provision in our lives. In becoming “like children,” we are called to live in humble openness to God’s grace, trusting His guidance and protection.
This also reflects God’s paternity, reminding us that God is not a distant creator but a loving Father who intimately cares for His children. Just as a child seeks the security and love of their parent, we are invited to seek the security and love of our Heavenly Father, acknowledging Him as the source of life, provision, and protection.
The Washing of Feet = An Act of Will
The washing of feet, particularly as demonstrated by Jesus at the Last Supper (John 13:1-17), symbolizes an extraordinary act of humility and service, but more than that, it is an intentional act of will. Jesus, the Son of God, performs a task usually reserved for the lowest servant, showing us that true love and leadership are expressed through service.
By washing the feet of His disciples, Jesus demonstrates that love is a choice—an act of will, not merely an emotional response. This action becomes a model for how we are to serve others, not out of obligation but out of a willful decision to humble ourselves and prioritize the well-being of those around us.
This act also represents the cleansing that Jesus offers us spiritually. Just as He cleansed the feet of His disciples, He cleanses our souls through His sacrificial love. The washing of feet symbolizes how we are made pure and whole through Christ’s love, but it also challenges us to willfully serve others in that same spirit of humility.
God’s Law and Will = Order Instead of Chaos
God’s law is more than a set of rules; it represents the divine order that contrasts with the chaos of sin and disorder. In the Bible, especially in the Psalms and the Torah, the law of God is seen as a source of life, wisdom, and protection. Psalm 119:105 expresses this beautifully:
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
God’s law brings structure, justice, and peace to a world that otherwise tends toward chaos and disorder. This divine order reflects God’s desire for humanity to live in harmony with His will, which ultimately leads to flourishing. When we live in obedience to God’s law, we align ourselves with this divine order, moving away from the chaos of selfishness, sin, and brokenness.
In following God’s will, we are not just avoiding chaos, but we are actively choosing to participate in His plan for peace and restoration. Submission to God’s law is, therefore, not about losing freedom, but about finding true freedom in the order that God provides.
Jesus Himself was the ultimate model of this submission, particularly in His prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane when He said:
“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)
Here, we see the perfect example of obedience to God’s will, even in the face of great suffering. Jesus chose God’s order over the chaos of the world, trusting that the Father’s plan would bring ultimate redemption.
Connecting the Symbols Together
- The Child reminds us of our place as dependent children of God, trusting Him as our loving Father.
- The Washing of Feet challenges us to choose humility and service, recognizing that love is an act of will, a deliberate choice to serve.
- God’s Law and Will remind us that living in obedience brings divine order, a contrast to the chaos of sin and selfishness.
Together, these symbols form a cohesive picture of what it means to live a life of faith, humility, and obedience:
- Like a child, we are called to trust in God’s paternity.
- Like Jesus washing the feet of His disciples, we are called to choose humble service.
- And like Jesus submitting to God’s will, we are called to align ourselves with divine order, trusting that God’s way leads to peace and fulfillment.
Reflection Questions for Your Meditation
- In what areas of my life do I need to trust God more, like a child trusts a parent?
- How can I make service a more intentional act of will, choosing to serve others humbly even when it’s difficult?
- Am I living in obedience to God’s law and will, or do I find myself caught in chaos and disorder? How can I realign my life with God’s order?
May these reflections deepen your understanding of these powerful symbols and draw you closer to God’s heart.
Hebrew word and symbolism for humility
The Hebrew word for humility is “עֲנָוָה” (anavah). It carries a rich and nuanced meaning that goes beyond the simple notion of lowliness. In Hebrew thought, “anavah” isn’t about self-deprecation, but rather about understanding one’s proper place in relation to God and others.
Meaning of “Anavah“
“Anavah” refers to humility, meekness, and modesty. In biblical and rabbinic literature, humility is deeply connected to recognizing one’s limitations and dependence on God. It is not about thinking less of oneself, but about understanding that everything we have and are comes from God. Humility involves being aware of our strengths and weaknesses while acknowledging that our gifts come from God for the service of others.
In Proverbs 22:4, humility is connected with wisdom and the fear of the Lord:
“The reward for humility (עֲנָוָה) and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life.”
Humility, in this sense, is about having a proper relationship with God, recognizing His sovereignty, and being obedient to His will.
Root of the Word and Connection to “Humus“
Interestingly, “anavah” shares a conceptual link with the Latin word “humus“ (earth, ground), which is the root of the English word “humility.” Both terms reflect the idea of being grounded or rooted in one’s proper place.
In Hebrew thought, there is an implicit understanding that to be humble is to be aware of one’s connection to the earth—our dependence on God as the Creator who formed us from the dust of the ground (Genesis 2:7). Just as “humus“refers to fertile soil, “anavah” refers to the fertile ground of a soul that can grow spiritually when it is properly aligned with God.
Symbolism of Humility in Hebrew
The symbol of humility in Hebrew is often related to the earth or dust. In Jewish tradition, being “low to the ground” (metaphorically or literally) is a sign of humility before God. For example, when people pray or show deep reverence to God in the Bible, they often bow low or even fall to the ground.
The act of bowing or prostrating oneself was not just a sign of respect but also an acknowledgment of God’s greatnessand our own smallness in comparison. This symbolic act of lowering oneself physically reflects a spiritual posture of humility.
Humility as a Spiritual Virtue and strenght
Humility in the Hebrew Bible is also seen as a precondition for spiritual growth and closeness to God. Those who are humble, or “anav,” are open to God’s guidance, unlike the proud or arrogant who rely solely on their own strength.
One of the most notable biblical figures associated with humility is Moses. In Numbers 12:3, it is written:
“Now the man Moses was very humble (עָנָו, anav), more than any other person on the face of the earth.”
Moses’ humility was not a sign of weakness but of profound spiritual strength. He was aware of his limitations and utterly reliant on God, which is why he was entrusted with such a great task. His humility allowed him to be a true leader because it kept him grounded and focused on serving God and His people, rather than seeking personal glory.
Humility as Groundedness in God
In both Hebrew and broader spiritual traditions, humility is about being grounded—in the sense of recognizing our place in God’s creation and being open to His direction. The word “anavah” teaches that true humility is not self-degradation, but an acceptance of who we are in relation to God, leading to the kind of fertile soil in our hearts where spiritual growth can take place.
Humility, in this biblical sense, opens the way to wisdom, service, and deeper communion with God. It’s a grounded posture that connects us to the earth (humus) while lifting our hearts to heaven.
Suggestions for deeper reflection and practice
Given the rich layers of meaning behind humility (anavah) and its connection to spiritual growth, here are a few suggestions for deeper reflection and practice:
1. A Scriptural Meditation on Moses’ Humility
- Focus: Reflect on Numbers 12:3, where Moses is described as the most humble man on earth. Meditate on how Moses’ humility shaped his leadership, his relationship with God, and his ability to carry out God’s mission.
- Questions for Reflection:
- How does Moses’ humility inspire me in my own life?
- In what ways does humility prepare me to hear and respond to God’s call?
- Am I grounded in the truth of my strengths and weaknesses, and do I acknowledge my complete dependence on God?
You could combine this meditation with a practice of lectio divina(sacred reading) to slowly immerse yourself in the Scripture, asking God to reveal areas where you can grow in humility.
2. Practical Acts of Humility in Service to Others
- Focus: Humility isn’t just a posture of the heart; it’s lived out in serving others. As you contemplate humility (anavah), you could engage in intentional acts of humble service this week.
- Ideas: Washing dishes for a family member, helping a stranger, or listening without speaking too much in a conversation—all simple, yet powerful ways to practice humility. Reflect afterward on how each act draws you closer to God, acknowledging Him as the source of your strength and your desire to serve.
- Question: How do small acts of service help me cultivate humility and ground me in my dependence on God?
3. Prayer of Humility: Ground Yourself in God’s Presence
- Focus: Craft or use a prayer of humility, inspired by Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane (Luke 22:42: “Not my will, but yours be done“) or the Litany of Humility, a powerful Catholic prayer that asks for the grace to be freed from the desire for recognition and the fear of humiliation.
- Exercise: Take a moment each morning to pray, asking God to help you approach the day with a spirit of humility, seeking not personal glory but to reflect His will in everything you do.
- A prayer: “Lord, help me to see Your greatness in all things, and let me live this day as a humble servant. Guide me to seek Your will over mine, and allow my heart to be fertile ground for Your word. Teach me in serving You, to serve others, not for recognition, but for thine.”
4. Contemplation on the Symbol of “Dust” and “Grounding”
- Focus: Reflect on the connection between the Hebrew understanding of humility and dust (humus). In Genesis, humans are formed from the dust of the earth (Genesis 2:7). This can remind us of our created nature and our dependence on God for life and purpose.
- Exercise: Find a quiet outdoor space where you can contemplate nature and the earth. Take some soil or dust into your hand and let it be a reminder of your dependence on God. Meditate on how God breathes life into us, forming us from the earth and calling us to walk humbly before Him.
- Question: How does reflecting on my “earthly” nature help me understand my spiritual identity and dependence on God?
5. Deepen Understanding of the Liturgical Practice of Washing Feet
- Focus: Reflect on the washing of feet as a profound gesture of humility and service, particularly in the context of Holy Thursday and Jesus washing the disciples’ feet.
- Exercise: If possible, participate in or meditate on the Holy Thursday liturgy, focusing on how this ritual symbolizes humility, the willful act of service, and the cleansing power of love. If the opportunity arises, washing someone’s feet (perhaps in a family or community context) can serve as a physical reminder of Jesus’ command to love one another.
- Question: How can I bring this humility and readiness to serve into my everyday interactions?
6. Study God’s Law and Will: From Chaos to Order
- Focus: Humility is not just about individual virtue; it’s about submitting to the order God has created, moving away from the chaos of self-will to the peace of His will.
- Exercise: Study key passages where God’s law brings order, such as Psalm 19:7-11 and Psalm 119. These Psalms celebrate the wisdom and life-giving nature of God’s law, reminding us that obedience to God’s law brings order and peace into our lives.
- Question: Where in my life do I see chaos, and how can I allow God’s law and will to bring order and peace into these areas?
Final Thought
Humility, as reflected in anavah, is a journey of aligning our hearts with God’s will, recognizing our place in His creation, and living out our dependence on Him. It transforms us from striving for personal greatness to living in a posture of openness, trust, and service.
These practices—whether through Scripture, prayer, or service—can help deepen your understanding and experience of humility as something that both grounds you in God’s presence and elevates your spirit toward divine grace.
Anchor of Hope
Here’s a poem that ties together the themes of humility as an act of hope,
with the anchor symbolizing our trust in something greater—God.
I kneel upon the dust of earth,
Hands open, heart laid bare.
In humble soil, I plant my worth,
For there, my soul finds prayer.
No crown I seek, no glory’s name,
But in the quiet ground,
I find the One who calls my name,
In whispers soft, profound.
The anchor holds within my chest,
Not bound to fleeting things,
But rooted deep in hope confessed—
The hope that greatness brings.
For humility is not despair,
But trust in something more,
A reaching out through tender care,
To heaven’s open door.
The anchor’s weight, a gentle guide,
That keeps me tethered still.
Not to my own, but to His side,
Aligned with perfect will.
In service small, in love that bends,
I see His greatness shine.
The One who serves, who condescends,
Is hope and love divine.
So here I bow, with heart unbound,
By pride or earthly fame.
For in this place, my hope is found—
Anchored in His name.
This poem reflects the idea that humility is an act of hope, not weakness. It’s an expression of trust in God’s greatness, like an anchor that keeps us grounded, secure, and steady. Humility isn’t about lowering oneself for the sake of it, but about rising in hope, trusting that our worth and strength come from God.
I hope the poem touched your heart. 🥲
It’s been a true joy reflecting on these themes with you. If you’d like to explore more about how humility plays a role in spiritual growth or how it’s reflected in other parts of Scripture, feel free to ask!
Wishing you continued grace and peace on your journey! 😇
To God’s greatness! 🚀❤️
