Tag Archives: humility

April 14
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“A dispute also arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. Jesus said to them, ‘The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.'” (Luke 22:24-26, NIV)

We now see the glory of the Resurrection, but before we arrive at Easter we must leave Palm Sunday and endure Good Friday. Our attitude through all of it, according to Jesus, is to be as He was: The least of all.  The last of all.  The servant of all. 

The disciples were acting out of their corrupted nature (which, as people, we all share).  This nature aspires to be the greatest of all.  This nature desires to be the first of all. This nature expects to be served by all. 

Because of what Jesus has done for all of us through His death on the cross, and through His resurrection from the dead; His summons to servitude is validated for all time and for all people. Our corrupted, natural ambitions assure nothing but strife, but our obedience to Jesus assures us life in all of its fullness.  – Luther

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April 3
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“They married Moabite women, one named Orpah and the other Ruth. After they had lived there about ten years, both Mahlon and Kilion also died, and Naomi was left without her two sons and her husband.” (Ruth 1:4-5, NIV)

It is hard to imagine a more dire situation than the one described in today’s scripture: Death, young widowhood, exile to a foreign land, and bleak economic prospects. This story of Naomi and her two daughters-in-law doesn’t end there, but it does begin in pain and uncertainty.

(There is more to this story, of course; and I encourage you to read the four short chapters that comprise the book of Ruth for the rest of the story.  Please click here for the full text!)

Despite the dark outlook, Naomi, Ruth, Orpah, and others, nevertheless, persist in the practice of humility, hospitality, and honesty. Although they were not assured of a short-term positive outcome — none of us ever are — they are confident in God. 

As did Naomi and the others, we show our confidence (another word for “faith”) in our heavenly Father by persisting in humility, hospitality, and honesty; especially during times of pain and uncertainty.  – Luther

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January 22
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“Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these. ‘” (Matthew 19:14, NIV) 

There is much the disciple of Jesus can learn from a child: Humility, a readiness to learn, and a natural attraction to the One who loves them.

When was the last time you approached the dawning day as young children do: With openness, wonder, enthusiasm, and joy?

When was the last time you approached our Lord as the children, in today’s scripture reading, did: Desiring only to be near Him?

Do not fear or suppress the child within you.  “The kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”  – Luther

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