On the 50th anniversary of Sir Edmund Hillary’s historic ascent of Mt. Everest, a television newsman said that much of Hillary’s status as a hero in Nepal was “not about what he did when he stood on top of the world, but what he did when he came back down.” After conquering the world’s highest mountain with his climbing companion Tenzing Norgay in 1953, Edmund spent the next five decades helping to build schools, hospitals, and bridges for the Sherpa community.

The contrast between Edmund Hillary’s moment on the mountain and his service in the valley brought to mind Jesus’ experience on the Mount of Transfiguration (Luke 9:28-36). It was a pinnacle of blessing when our Lord’s appearance became radiant and the Father said, “This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!” (v.35).

But Jesus didn’t stay on the mountain. He came down to the crowd, where He freed a boy from an evil spirit. He was determined to go to Jerusalem and fulfill His mission, where He would willingly die on the cross for our sins.

Jesus told His disciples, “He who is least among you all will be great” (v.48). Our Lord’s life shows us that true greatness is found in humbly serving God and others in the valley of need.