An argument arose among the disciples about which of them was the greatest. Jesus realized the intention of their hearts and took a child and placed it by his side and said to them, "Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest." Then John said in reply, "Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow in our company." Jesus said to him, "Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you." (Lk 9:46-50)
Does Jesus mean that child friendly people are God friendly people? He says that receiving a child is receiving Jesus and that in turn mean receiving God. Children depend on elders. Children do not argue. They only have needs and wants. Does Jesus identify himself with a child? For he says: ‘whoever receives a child receives me’.
‘Least among you is the greatest’. Any institution or organization or structure works on the principles of ‘greatest’, ‘least’. It is very obvious that Jesus was not bothered about institution/organization/structure. He was interested in people/person. Every person is important and there is no distinction among persons. Each person has his own worth and value. That is why Jesus equated ‘greatest’ with ‘least’.
‘Doing good’ should not be prevented on any account. Jesus tells his disciples not to distinguish/differentiate people on any criteria (even as followers and non-followers and much less as groups, castes, sects, religions, classes etc.). If a person does good or removes evil (casting out demon) then he should be encouraged to carry on be he whatever or whoever.
