A Lawyer Who Reconciles
True greatness is often unseen—like quietly mopping muddy footprints no one else will touch.
Devotional Credit: E. Stanley Jones, In Christ
Photo Credit: Unsplash
E. Stanley Jones draws our attention to a crucial truth that often gets lost in Christian circles: greatness in the kingdom of God does not come from religious status, clerical titles, or hierarchical power. Instead, it comes through servanthood—the same kind of servanthood Jesus Himself embraced when He laid down His life as a ransom for many. Christ's model wasn’t about climbing ladders of influence or securing titles; it was about stooping low in love, washing feet, and embracing the cross.
In contrast, Jones laments the modern tendency to view greatness through ecclesiastical position—an imported, worldly power structure that has no place in the life of Christ. Jesus said, “It shall not be so among you” (Matthew 20:25–26), and yet, tragically, it has become so in many religious contexts. The striving for influence, recognition, and authority corrupts both the heart and the ministry, pulling believers away from Christ’s pattern.
But then, Jones gives us a powerful example—a Christian lawyer who is not seeking greatness in accolades or wealth but in reconciliation. Though he could earn more money by pursuing divorce settlements, this man delights in restoring broken relationships. He loses financially but gains joy, peace, and quiet spiritual stature. In this, Jones reminds us that true greatness is not loud or visible—it quietly flourishes in the self-forgetful servant who lives in Christ.
Personalized Journal Entry – Voice of the Holy Spirit Through Scripture
I do not measure your worth by your status, platform, or reputation. I see into the heart, and I dwell in the one who rests in Me. The world has taught you to ascend—climb higher, speak louder, do more to be noticed. But My Son descended. He knelt to serve, to reconcile, to ransom. And now I live in you to express that same selfless life.
When you walk into rooms seeking to give instead of gain, I am seen. When you choose reconciliation over retaliation, humility over honor, I am revealed. I am not impressed by crowns or robes or eloquent words—I rejoice when you lose yourself in love. That is where you will find Me, filling you with joy and bearing fruit that will last.
The ones you admire most may never be admired by crowds, but they reflect Me. The quiet peacemaker, the listening friend, the self-sacrificing spouse, the lawyer who restores rather than profits—these are My living epistles. And you, My child, were made to walk in this same way. Let Me live this servant-life through you, moment by moment, and you will discover a greatness that no title can bestow.
Scriptures referenced: Matthew 20:25–26; Philippians 2:5–8; Galatians 2:20; Romans 8:10; John 13:14–17
Real-Life Analogy
It’s like cleaning someone else’s muddy footprints from your own hallway floor. The world might say, “They should clean up after themselves,” but you quietly pick up the mop—not for recognition, but because love compels you. With each swipe, you feel no resentment, only peace. You’ve chosen to stoop—and in doing so, you’ve risen into the life of Christ.
Prayer of Confidence
Father, thank You that in Christ, I no longer have to strive to be seen, heard, or promoted. You have already seated me with Christ in the heavenly places. I trust You to live out Your reconciling love through me today—quietly, joyfully, and without fanfare. I rest in Your definition of greatness, knowing You’ve already filled me with the Spirit of the Servant-King. May I walk in step with Him, in all humility and peace.