In Deuteronomy 4, Moses speaks to the Israelites as they are preparing to enter the Promised Land. He reminds them of the importance of obeying God’s commandments, stressing that their greatness as a people comes from their faithfulness to God’s law. Moses urges them to remember the covenant God made with their ancestors and the special relationship they share with Him. In verse 6, Moses tells them that if they follow God’s commandments, they will be “a people wise and understanding,” and that nations will see their wisdom and greatness. The greatness of Israel is not to be found in military strength or worldly power, but in their obedience to God’s commands and their distinctiveness as God’s chosen people.
This message speaks to us today, reminding us that greatness in the eyes of God is not based on external success or power. Rather, it comes from living according to God’s word and reflecting His holiness and righteousness to the world. As Christians, our greatness is not defined by what we achieve on our own, but by our faithfulness to God’s will and our willingness to live in accordance with His teachings.
In Matthew 5, Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount, where He presents the Beatitudes and offers teachings that turn conventional ideas of greatness upside down. Jesus declares, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3), and “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5). These teachings reveal that greatness in the Kingdom of God is not based on wealth, power, or status, but on humility, purity, and a heart devoted to God.
To aspire to be great in the Kingdom of God is not about self-promotion or seeking earthly power. Instead, it’s about striving to live according to God’s will, seeking His righteousness, and reflecting His love and holiness in the world. As we journey through Lent, we are invited to examine our lives and ask ourselves: Are we seeking greatness in the eyes of the world, or are we aspiring to be great in the Kingdom of God by humbling ourselves, serving others, and living in obedience to His word?
True greatness in the Kingdom of God is not about self-glorification but about living humbly, seeking righteousness, and serving others with a heart that reflects God’s love. Both readings remind us that our greatness is found not in external achievements, but in our fidelity to God’s Word and our role as witnesses of His Kingdom on earth. Let us, therefore, aspire to greatness by living out these values, allowing God’s love and truth to shine through us to the world.
Sr. Gifty Anastasia Blewu SMMC
(Sister Communicator )
