Greatness: Matthew 14-20ਨਮੂਨਾ

Someone once said, “you can’t staple healthy apples onto a rotten apple tree.” In the same way, humility that doesn’t flow from the heart isn’t true humility.

Jesus wasn’t into “fruit-stapling.” He didn’t settle for superficial change. He saw people’s hearts and knew there were no shortcuts to the deep transformation He came to bring. Jesus didn’t come to apply band-aids — He came to perform a full heart transplant.

As we reflect on Jesus’ stunning example of humble, servant-hearted leadership (as we’ll read in today’s passages), it’s easy to slip into a mindset of performance:

“If I just grit my teeth and serve others, denying my own needs and wants, then I’ll get what I want in return.”

But this kind of striving is still just fruit-stapling. The apples may look healthy on the outside, but without being connected to the true source of life — Jesus — they will eventually rot.

When that fruit turns rotten, we can feel deeply discouraged. We may even realise that, like the sons of Zebedee, our motives have been more about seeking recognition than reflecting Christ. Our hearts turn inward, and we see how easily we chase our own glory rather than God’s.

So, how do we avoid the trap of false humility?

The answer isn’t trying harder. The only way to cultivate true humility is through the forgiveness and transformation Jesus offers. When we come to Him, acknowledge our need and receive His mercy, He begins to reshape our hearts. From that place, the fruit of humility grows naturally because it flows from love and relationship, not obligation.

Today, ponder this:

What is the condition of your heart toward God today?

Are there areas where you’ve been “stapling fruit” instead of staying connected to Jesus?

Are your acts of service rooted in love for God and others, or are they fueled by performance or self-gain?