Greatness Expects Nothing In Return

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13).

While we’re building our futures and chasing our dreams, Jesus suggested something counterintuitive - that true greatness isn’t about what you can acquire, but what you’re willing to sacrifice.

Jesus lived this truth daily, giving up comfort, privacy, and ultimately everything to demonstrate what real love — what real greatness — looks like.

The greatness that Jesus demonstrated wasn’t about performative generosity or how we might want to post our good deeds online for others to see. His was about genuine sacrifice that often went unnoticed and unrecorded.

He showed up for people in their darkest moments, gave time he didn’t have to spare, and consistently chose others’ needs over his own comfort.

This kind of greatness and love isn’t about grand gestures or viral moments of kindness. It’s about the daily choice to put others first, even when it costs you something valuable.

Self Reflection

What ideas and definitions of greatness do I have that could be redefined by Jesus’ teachings and example? In what ways am I willing to let go of my own comfort, time, or resources - whether they are abundant or scarce - to show genuine love and care for others?