Tuesday August 11, 2026

Matthew 18:1-5,10,12-14

The disciples came to Jesus and said, ‘Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?’

It is not the question that was problematic, it is the timing of the question. It clearly revealed what the disciples were preoccupied with. For them it was about Power and prestige. I hate to say it but not much has changed in ecclesiastical circumstances. We will get back to this one.

Jesus at this point in the narrative is really troubled at heart. The Pharisees, and political leaders are planning on killing him. He is very much aware of the growing opposition and begins to talk to his closest friends about this fear, this threat to his life. He then predicts that he will be killed in Jerusalem. Now this is not “hey guys FYI I will be betrayed and crucified when we get to Jerusalem..” He is sharing something that is extremely difficult and no one hears him. When your life is at stake, you don’t eat, you don’t sleep well, you get paranoid. Yes you do if you are fully human. Yet everyone is thinking what else can they get from him.

Have you ever been around people like that? People who demand your last drop of blood or energy and take take take. It is never enough for them until they suck you dry. Well the disciples are being jerks. They are worried about power and the Lord is sick to his stomach about his own life.

I do not want to make this a long read. But don’t be that guy!! Check on those who always appear strong. They may need your shoulder now and then.