What makes something or someone "great?" How do we determine greatness? Generally we think of something that is bigger, or better. There is a sense of more-ness about someone or something that is great, especially when compared with something or someone else who is not "great."
In the Psalm, we see a list of the way that God is great:
He is mightier than the mightiest angel,
He rules and subdues the oceans,
He created everything in the world (sea monsters, north and south, the heavens, the earth, etc),
Strength, righteousness, protection,
Anointed King David, a great King of Israel,
...to name a few!
In Jeremiah, the Lord knew, before Jeremiah was even conceived in his mother's womb, that he would be a prophet to the nations, speaking for the Lord. Jeremiah protests, saying that he is too young for such a calling (perhaps feeling that he isn't great enough?), but the Lord says it doesn't matter. The Lord is great, and he will be with Jeremiah, protecting him and giving him the words to say. Difficult words. Words that could have the power to build up or tear down a kingdom.
In Acts, we see the story of the city of Samaria. A man there, Simon the Sorcerer, was seen as a very great and powerful man (by himself, and by others, because of the magic he performed). When Philip came to the city to tell people about Jesus, and performed signs and wonders, casting out demons and healing people, they saw an even greater power than Simon had. Many people, including Simon, believed and were baptized. It wasn't Philip's power and greatness that won people over, it came from the Lord.
Have there been times in your life where you did not feel adequately equipped to do what the Lord was calling you to do? How have you seen God equip others (or yourself) beyond what they thought they were capable of doing?
Conversely, have you ever been like Simon, and thought you were really great, and the Lord impressed you with even more greatness?
What are some other ways that you have seen the greatness of the Lord in your life (or in the life of others)?
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn
but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the
strength of love: So mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that
all peoples may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of
Peace, as children of one Father; to whom be dominion and
glory, now and for ever. Amen.
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