On becoming Great

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season: Third Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mt 5:17-19*

*First Reading : Dt 4:1, 5-9*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 147:12-13, 15-16, 19-20*

*On becoming Great*

*1) Inner War to become great*

There is a strong war which goes on in our life to become great in our life 

This is one of the Fundamental desires of human life 

People do follow difference methods and ways to become great in their life 

*2) Two places to become great*

*Worldly Greatness* Most of us try to become great here on this world 

In this process, most of the people use the worldly standards to become great 

Some people try to become great in heaven by living the Gospel standards while they live their life here on earth 

*3) Gospel on the Greatness in the Kingdom of God*

The Gospel speaks about the greatness in the kingdom of God 

To become great in the Kingdom of God one must follow the following standards 

*A) Obedience*

Jesus says *Whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the Kingdom of heaven.*

True greatness comes from faithfully obeying God’s word and living a holy life.

Jesus fulfilled the Law, and we are called to follow His example by loving God and loving others (Matthew 22:37-39).

*B) Humility*

Jesus says *Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven.*

Humility is essential. Just as a child depends on a parent, we must depend on God with trust and simplicity.

Greatness comes from recognizing our need for God and not seeking self-glorification.

*C) Service*

Jesus says *The greatest among you will be your servant. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.*

Jesus showed that true greatness is found in serving others, not in seeking authority.

He washed the feet of His disciples (John 13:14-15), teaching us to lead through humble service.

*D) Sacrifice*

Jesus says *Whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be the slave of all."*

This means putting God and others before ourselves, even when it requires sacrifice.

*4) Why We have to become great in Kingdom of Heaven?*

*It Is God’s Will for Us* True greatness lies in achieving the God created purpose of our life

*To Be a Light to the World* Being great in the Kingdom means reflecting God’s love, truth, and righteousness in the world.

*To Receive the Eternal Reward* Seeking greatness in God’s Kingdom leads to heavenly rewards—eternal joy in God’s presence.

*To Glorify God Through Our Lives* When we live according to God’s ways, we show His goodness to the world.

*5) Worldly Greatness vs Heavenly Greatness*

Worldly greatness is based on power, status, and wealth

Heavenly Grestnes is based on humility, obedience, and love (Matthew 23:11-12)

Worldy greatness Seeks self-glory and personal success

Heavenly greatness Seeks to glorify God and serve others (1 Corinthians 10:31)

*WG* is Temporary and fades with time

*HG* is Eternal and rewarded by God (Matthew 25:21)

*WG* is Achieved by competition and self-promotion

*HG* Achieved by serving others with humility (Mark 10:43-45)

*WG* Focuses on being served

*HG* Focuses on serving others like Jesus (John 13:14-15)

*WG* Can lead to pride and selfishness

*HG* Leads to holiness and closeness to God

Jesus Himself is the perfect model of this greatness. By following Him, we grow in true greatness before God.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*