humility

CS Lewis once wrote,

"Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less"

And the truth is that when we begin to think about ourselves less, we really do begin to think of others more and their needs become apparent!

Jesus' life and ministry is marked by humilty. It's a central theme of his teachings that reflects both his character as 'the servant King' and his message to the world!

In John 13, we read about Jesus washing the feet of his disciples, a task normally carried out by the lowleist of servants. But by this humble act, Jesus illustrates that true greatness in the Kingdom of God is found not in seeking power or status but rather in serving others. Jesus personified humility by his actions, and as our beloved King, he demonstrated how we are to live lives that serve others.

In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus taught 'blessed are the poor in spirit' and 'blessed are the meek' (Matt 5:3-5) Here Jesus explains that humility is a virtue that opens the door for us to receiving God's blessing. Those born of humble origins naturally recognised their dependence on God for everything that they have, and are therefore naturally ready and willing to submtt to his will.

With humility pride can't exist!, which wasn't what Jesus found with the religious leaders of his day! Often he publiclly critised and warned them against their pride and self-righteouness. For example in Matt 23:5-7 we read:

“Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; they love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces and to be called ‘Rabbi’ by others.

The warning is found in verse 12

For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.

And so each of us is called to humble ourselves!

In Matt 18:1-4 we read of the disciples asking jesus who is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven?

At this Jesus called a little child to him and placed the child amongst them,

...unless you change and become like little children you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever takes the lowely position of this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven.

By this, Jesus taught us that we must have childlike humility that's naturally innocent, requires trust, dependence and an openness to learning. Therefore we see that humility is essential for our spiritual growth and development.

Then there are Jesus's parables, in particular the one concerning the Pharisee and the Tax collector that's found in Luke 18:9-14. This parable illustrates the importance of humility when seeking forgivness. The Tax collector aware of his failings comes before God with a humble heart, while the Pharisee stands proud, boasting of his righteousness. In this story Jesus teaches that having humility brings us to a right place in both mind and heart where we can receive God's forgivness.

Even in Jesus's call to follow him we find the need for humility, for we read in Matt 16:24

"Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me"

Self-denial is a fundamental aspect of humilty, requiring our willingness to place God's will above our own. Jesus taught that humilty is about recognising our limitations, serving others selflessly and trusting in God's grace to guide us. It's a call to live in a way that reflects the very heart of Christ who embodied humility throughout his life and ministry. By embracing humility we grow closer to God, developing deeper relationships with Him and our neighbours.

Have a great week, and God bless,

Trev.