7 As John’s disciples were leaving, Jesus began to speak to the crowd about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed swayed by the wind? 8 If not, what did you go out to see? A man dressed in fine clothes? No, those who wear fine clothes are in kings’ palaces. 9 Then what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 10 This is the one about whom it is written:

“‘I will send my messenger ahead of you,
who will prepare your way before you.’

11 Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. Matthew 11:7-11

What does it take or mean to be least in the Kingdom of Heaven? We go to Matthew 18:1-4 for that answer: “Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”

Children are helpless and have nothing to offer, and can’t care for themselves. The greatest in the kingdom is the least in the kingdom. They are needy and have nothing to offer except themselves.

Listen to someone comment about a famous person coming to Christ, “Wow, he has a lot to offer.” That’s not the point at all. In fact, they are at a great disadvantage because they think they have a lot to offer but in reality God doesn’t need them. He doesn’t need us either but He chooses to use us (and them). He’ll strip us of all our pride and fill us with humility. Then we have nothing to offer but ourselves.

We come to Him daily, like a child, like the least in the kingdom, needing love and encouragement, but mostly needing Him.