Woops. The disciples sure stuck their foot in their mouth this time (Matthew 18:1-20). Can you hear the prideful jockeying for position in their question to Jesus: "Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?"
He, of course, knew their perspective was all wrong and so replied with an object lesson to address the need. He called over a little child, whom He stood in the middle of the room, and said, "Believe me, unless you change your whole outlook and become like little children you will never enter the kingdom of Heaven." (Phillips) Hmm... And notice He said little children - maybe 1, 2, or 3 year olds who are described the the Amplified Bible as trusting, lowly, loving, forgiving. These certainly know they need help.
Hopefully these disciples realized their error in taking for granted their presence in the kingdom as they focused on who would be top dog. How easily pride sneaks in. They did not know then the awful price Jesus would pay for them to enter this kingdom.
Lord, teach us this beautiful lesson of the little child so we will remember to be grateful for Your opening the door for us. Protect us from pride and help us to even thank You for each humbling.
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