What humility does for one is it reminds us that there are people before me. I have already been paid for. And what I need to do is prepare myself so that I can pay for someone else who has yet to come but who may be here and needs me.
I am neither an optimist nor a pessimist. I categorize myself simply as a realist. Midlife will do that to you. I fully believe in the good of mankind. I have high hopes for myself and the human race. I like to give people the benefit of the doubt. I choose kindness and grace at every opportunity. I believe in going the extra mile and not expecting anything in return. And yet, I confess that I’m skeptical. I’ve seen enough to know that we (myself included) don’t always rise to the occasion. We are flawed, broken, weary, judgmental, and more than these we are fully human seeking to serve self first. We (again myself included) hate to hear the word “no.” Pride is incredibly insidious and has earned its rightful rank as one of the Seven Deadly Sins.
In light of current events, both our collective and personal flaws have become more evident. The hoarding is just the beginning. The outright backbiting and blaming on social media, television, radio and in-person are a reminder that we are not operating as our best selves. Dismissing and cutting down noted medical professionals and downplaying directives from our elected leaders demonstrates our inability to hear the word “no.” My first thought was that this was entirely an American phenomenon, but that’s not the case. Selfishness exists around the world. We’re all guilty here. People I know and love are presently operating out of this selfishness and privilege. While we are collectively coping with this pandemic, the root of this global “me-first” perspective is pride. And pride is a human condition, one than equally affects politicians, religious leaders, CEOs, celebrities, athletes, influencers, neighbors, family members, friends, you and me.
Yet, hope is not lost. There is good. I’ve seen it. You’ve seen it. We’re all trying. And let’s be honest, some days are better than others. I truly believe the difference maker here is humility. The dictionary defines the word humble as not proud, haughty, arrogant, or assertive. To be humble is to express deference or submission. In a culture that values status and seeks accolades, it’s easy to note our lack of humility. It’s not because we don’t understand the definition. We do. We just don’t like it. We don’t value it. Plus, the messaging has always been confusing. How am I supposed to stand up for myself, value myself, claim and proclaim my self worth, and cultivate healthy self-esteem if I put others above myself? No one wants to be walked on, dismissed or set aside, and yet that remains the connotation.
The Bible offers us another perspective on humility. One where we earnestly value others, where we understand that we’re all in this human experience together, one where my life is no more significant than any other life. I have no right to anything or anyone. My life is a gift and I’m called to live in response to that. I have been claimed by an almighty and powerful God. My eternity was bought and paid for by the sacrifice of a Savior. I am not called to react, but only to respond. And that response is humility.
Years ago I heard a Christian leader describe the Bible as God’s great love story. It changed my perspective. The Bible was no longer a collection of books, but one big narrative about a Creator and His creation. My understanding grew. I could see new and more meaningful connections not just between its chapters and characters, but between then and now. The Bible became not just a love story but a living, breathing, and extremely timely on-going narrative for Christians today. And that story continues. As followers, our lives are an unwritten testimony for all to see.
The reality of the pandemic has weighed heavily on my heart. My reflective nature and night owl tendencies have given me a lot of time to ponder. When stress, worry, and anxiety fill my thoughts, I pray and think about the things I can control. And I am grateful for a faith that I can rely upon. I wholeheartedly believe that while these days are scary, uncomfortable, and unpredictable, there are lessons and blessings to be found. Still, I am not naive. We are largely walking through unchartered territory and we will all respond differently in the days, weeks, and months to come. Fear will take over at times. Tensions will run high. We will be tested. We will fail. And again, some days will be better than others. But, there will be opportunities for us to be a light, to meet the needs of others, and most of all, opportunities to respond humbly.
Life isn’t a short game. It is a journey. Are you able, or more accurately, are you willing to make sacrifices, submit to those who know more than you do, and go without? Can you pause, wait, and humble yourself before God and neighbor? My prayer is that each of us will respond accordingly and do our part. Stay home, wear the mask when necessary, and don’t forget to wash your hands.
Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. —James 4:10
hymningandhaing 