True Greatness
There’s a good handful of golfers it would be really easy to argue as “truly great. “ From Jack Nichlaus and Arnold Palmer to Tiger Woods and Scottie Scheffler, greatness shows itself through skill, dedication to improvement, and passion that rises to levels above all who dare compete. This type of greatness is sought-after and easy to recognize when you see it. Although, there’s another example who redefines what greatness looks like.
The Example of Christ
In a world that measures greatness by status, power, and recognition, Jesus turned the definition of greatness upside down. In Mark 10:45, Jesus says of Himself, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” With these words, Christ not only taught us what true greatness looks like, He lived it in His body.
Jesus In Humility
Jesus had every right to demand honor and obedience. He is the Son of God, the King of kings, the One through whom all creation was made. But instead of coming in glory to be catered to, He came in humility to serve. His mission was not self-centered but others-centered, evidenced in the ultimate act of service: giving His life on the cross for our redemption.
This truth is expanded beautifully in Philippians 2:5–11. Paul urges believers to have the same mindset as Christ Jesus, “who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant.” Jesus’ humility was not weakness but power under the perfect control of His Father. He willingly stepped down from heavenly glory to wash feet, heal the broken, touch the untouchable, and lay down His life. His service was fueled by love, not obligation.
Our Call to Serve
For us, biblical service means more than just doing good deeds. It’s about surrendering pride, setting aside personal ambition, and seeking the well-being of others above our own. It means serving not because it earns us recognition, but because it reflects the heart of Christ. When we serve with humility, whether it’s encouraging a friend or stranger, helping someone in need, or simply listening with empathy and care, we participate in Christ’s motive- love.
The call to serve is also a call to transformation. Service shapes us to look more like Jesus. As Philippians 2 reminds us, Christ humbled Himself to the lowest point, and because of this, God exalted Him to the highest place. Likewise, when we choose humility and service, God’s power is displayed in us, and our lives point others to His glory.
Closing thought
True greatness is not about how many serve us but how faithfully we serve others. Following the example of Jesus, let us find joy and purpose in pouring ourselves out for the sake of the Kingdom. Follow the lead of Jesus for His Glory!