Tag Archives: humility

April 17
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“For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 14:11, NIV)

Humility.

Jesus tells us that we ought not to exalt ourselves — that is, seek a status that is higher, larger, or more powerful, for our own benefit and glorification (e. g., time in the spotlight).

Our ego seeks such elevations, but the reality is that someone else is always smarter, more prominent, or more powerful than we are.

In the context of today’s scripture, Jesus challenges us to resist the temptation of self-promotion and self-elevation so common in our society; and instead, take our place with the least and the last among us.  Truly humble individuals are always recognized, in God’s time, with a public promotion that no one can take-back or take-away.  – Luther

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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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