And an argument arose among them as to which of them was the greatest. But when Jesus perceived the thought of their hearts, he took a child and put him by his side, and said to them, "Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me; for he who is least among you all is the one who is great." Luke 9:46–48 (RSV)
For by the grace given to me I bid every one among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith which God has assigned him. Romans 12:3 (RSV)
"Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less," C. S. Lewis
It is clear from Scripture that each one of us is of infinite worth to the Father. Before all the ages were called into being, it was in the mind and heart of God that we should exist. We see the love of the Father for us in the death and resurrection of Jesus.
Surrounded by such wondrous love, it would seem justified that we should think quite highly of ourselves. If God cares so much about each of us, why shouldn't we be a bit puffed up? It seems only natural.
It may be natural, but it is also a hazardous way to live. Yes, we are unique and blessed individuals, but if we stop there, with only ourselves, we miss the more profound purpose the Father has for us.
When the disciples get caught up in arguing about which one of them gets the best spot in the Kingdom, Jesus gives them a corrective. Placing a child in the midst of them, Jesus taught how things are in the Kingdom. Whoever cares for the least and most helpless truly serves the Lord.
C. S. Lewis echos St. Paul when he points out that this humility is not a sign of weakness. It is the way a person who is wrapped in the love of Christ lives. We live our lives in Christ as we love and care for the helpless ones.
There is no weakness in humility. Instead, the humble person is the one with the greatest strength, for they can let go of themselves to serve the neighbor.