Moment of Meditation: Great in the Kingdom (Matthew 5:19)

[Jesus continued:] "But whoever keeps and teaches them,
he shall be called great in the kingdom of Heaven."
(Matthew 5:19)

Great in the Kingdom

Sinfully, we want to be considered "great in the kingdom of Heaven." We want to be able to come to Jesus on Judgment Day and have a long list of all the great things we have done for Him. Why we should have one of the "great" spots in Heaven. We want to rationalize ourselves by what we do. After all, John says the Final Judgment comes by our deeds, what is recorded in the judgment books (Revelation 20:12).

But every time the Apostles asked the question among themselves, Jesus shot them down. Greatness in the kingdom isn't about a long list of great deeds and accomplishments. Greatness in the kingdom is simple. "Whoever keeps and teaches" God's commandments. Faith is greatness in the kingdom of God. Believing that your name is written in the Lamb's book of life. Not because you're such a great person. Because He's such a great Savior. Not keeping that to yourself. Teaching your children, grandchildren, neighbors. Letting them see your great Savior. Amen.