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    I’ve often marveled at Jesus’ ability to teach powerful truths through the simple stories of everyday life. Most often, we think of these life-lessons as parables. But Jesus did more than “tell” stories to bring truths to life, he often used life as a lesson. The longer I live knowing Jesus, the more I’ve come to understand why Jesus used this method to teach and how powerfully this approach works.

    Several months ago, over Labor Day weekend, I was privileged to help my wife, Kathi, teach three of her five preschool classes at Celebration 2000 in Auburn, WA (Celebration is an area-wide gathering of Christians for worship, praise and study). I watched as she put her God-given talent to work with this room full of energy, excitement and enthusiasm. Before even one hour had passed, they all wanted her attention, each hoping she would turn her eyes and ears on them. They listened to her words and soaked up her wisdom. There was no doubt, they thought she was the greatest!

“At that time, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, ‘Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?’” (Matthew 18:1)

    Standing in the presence of the Son of God, the twelve men who knew him best asked who was the greatest in the kingdom! Isn’t that just like you and me? So wrapped up in ourselves that we lose sight of who the greatest one really is? Thinking, hoping, wishing it will be me. I’ll be the one who has the highest position, the place of honor, the due that’s coming to me for all the hard work and service I’ve given.

“He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said. ‘I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.’” (Matthew 18:2-4).

They depended on her, they longed to learn from her...

    In that preschool classroom over the weekend, this truth came to life. Those children weren’t vying for the head position, they knew who the teacher was. They depended on her, they longed to learn from her — that’s why they called her name, that’s why they wanted her attention!

    In Matthew 18, Jesus uses a child to teach every adult at least two vital lessons about being a true believer. First, we need to “change.” Change from our adult hold on pride and position and become like little children, who are dependant on someone for their needs. And second, this change takes place when we “humble ourselves.” A choice we make, an attitude we take, a position we accept willingly.

    Three days of lectures and classes. Awesome speakers and powerful lessons. But the greatest lesson was one I learned at this great conference came from watching twenty-three preschoolers interact with their teacher. I saw how I need to change and humble myself to become like a child.

    Father, Jesus so often used life to teach us about what’s really important. Through a room full of preschoolers you helped me understand humility and my need to change. For all of those who read the words you’ve given me, I pray they too will see the power in becoming a child again. Amen.