What is “greatness” in this life?

There are certainly many ways to approach this question, don’t you think?

If we are “great” in life, some day people might build us a memorial like this one that celebrates Thomas Jefferson.  Perhaps something a little smaller would be nice, after all there can only be so many authors of the Declaration of Independence…

This city is full of monuments and memorials to great men and women of the past and while I wouldn’t wish to take away from their contributions to humanity, I would point out that true greatness goes far beyond earthly accomplishment.  Let’s be honest; the day will come when all of the things of this world will pass away.

Real greatness, that is to say that greatness that will stand not only the test of time but the test of eternity is something different…

Real greatness is there for anyone who chooses to follow Jesus Christ. Jesus has commanded that we make disciples.  This isn’t really a “loud” pursuit, it involves committed people working with their neighbors, coworkers and people they meet to change lives for Christ, to help guide other people into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ, and to nurture the growth of others’ into discipleship.  No, I’m afraid that we won’t be likely to have a classical temple built in our honor, but we will spend eternity in the very loving presence of the Creator of all that is holy, good and worthwhile in the universe.

Mr. Jefferson did much to build a Nation, may we do much to build a Kingdom that will last for all eternity.