Significance: Where Does it Come From?

Page from an Illuminated Gospel, 14th century. Ethiopia, Amhara region.

1. What do you notice in this work of art?


2. People need to know that they are unique and worthy of recognition. Some find significance through personal accomplishments or their family. In your own life, where do you find significance?


3. Choose a or b below:

a. Nelson Mandela said, “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” How do Mandela’s thoughts on significance differ from the view that success, wealth, or power, brings significance?

b. Jesus’s disciples had many discussions among themselves about who was the greatest, most important, or most significant. Jesus told them, “‘Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all...’ Taking a child in his arms, he said to them, ‘Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me’” (Mark 9:35-37). How is Jesus’s path to greatness different from what we usually hear about?

4. Halos, the circles of light painted around heads, have been used since ancient times to represent significance. Draw a sketch of yourself with the most significant people in your life.