46 An argument arose among them as to which of them was the greatest. 47 But Jesus, knowing the reasoning of their hearts, took a child and put him by his side 48 and said to them, “Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me. For he who is least among you all is the one who is great.” (Luke 9)
What is interesting to notice in the final days of Jesus' ministry - even up to the celebration in the upper room when He gave His farewell address - is how many topics had come up months before. This event is a case in point. We will see the disciples repeat this argument about "Who is the Greatest?" during the Passover celebration. Jesus even gives these guys a vishual representation to help it stick in their minds. He answers their question clearly and concisely, but it's not settled in their hearts. His resolve to face the cross was the same way - even though He also predicted that back here in Luke 9, they were still grappling with it in the upper room. We are often slow to perceive, as Jesus says. Even when we hear "thus saith the Lord," we want it to be negotiable, to fit our plans and purposes. Perhaps today we should ask Him our questions, and actually listen to His answers, and go from their, following His plan. Then we will not be so shocked when He rises again.
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