Black brush lettering on ivory handmade paper: “Following Jesus gives us a new way to measure greatness.”

When We Argue About Who Matters Most

We may be grown, but the question of who matters most can still show up in ordinary places. It enters a meeting, a ministry team, or a family conversation whenever being important begins to matter more than loving well.

Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.

(Mark 9:35, NIV, excerpt)

Jesus’ disciples had been arguing about which of them was greatest. When He asked about it, they fell silent. Jesus sat down and taught them that the one who wants to be first must become the servant of all. Then He took a child in His arms and connected welcoming a child in His name with welcoming Him and the Father who sent Him.

Give your attention to someone who needs it

Jesus gave His disciples a different measure of greatness. Serving people and welcoming the little ones mattered in His kingdom.

Think about the groups you belong to. Whose needs receive less attention? A child waiting to be heard, a new volunteer learning the routine, or a person who rarely speaks may give you a place to begin.

Offer care that respects their dignity. Ask a question, explain something patiently, or share an ordinary task. Let Jesus’ teaching shape your choices about whose needs matter.

This can also help us lead. We can build habits that make space for overlooked people and praise service when we see it. A community learns something about Jesus through what it chooses to honor.