A dispute also arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. Jesus said to them, “The kings of the Gentiles Lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. You are those who have stood by me in my trials. And I confer on you a kingdom, just as my Father conferred one on me, so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”

When young men or women go off to school, especially college, it can seem like another world to them. All they have known — their home, the guidelines and protections they have, their family support — can seem so far away. And now there is this new environment with easy access to most everything you might desire. Some decide this is their chance at freedom and they totally change their life to focus on the pleasures of the moment. Others remember where their home is, where they came from, and they act accordingly.

The disciples are caught in an interesting conversation here, debating who will be the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. I can hear it now: “I have done the most miracles”, “I have kept the law the most flawlessly”, “I have built the broadest base of relationships in town — look at the dignitaries who would support me in heaven!” So they compared their accomplishments in this world, thinking that these would gain them greater stature in God’s heavenly kingdom.

But Jesus turns the tables on them and tells them that the greatest in heaven will be a servant here on earth. He says that servant leadership is the only way to achieve greatness with God in his Kingdom.

So the question comes to mind: Which kingdom do you place more importance on? This earthly kingdom, or your future heavenly kingdom? In a nutshell, where do you claim as your “home kingdom”?

Jesus claimed heaven as his Home Kingdom, and he lived his life here on earth as a servant for all. This pleased his Heavenly Father immensely! How does having a Home Kingdom of Heaven change my mindset, my priorities, and my actions here on earth?

Thank you, Lord, for convicting me to constantly check myself and whose team I play for. Am I playing for my Heavenly Father in this life I live? Am I on Heaven’s Home Team? Or am I playing for immediate pleasures in this fleeting world? Teach me to focus on your Kingdom Priorities and Ways!