Humble or humiliated
by Neil Bergmann
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For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted (Luke 14:11).
Read Luke 14:1,7–14
As Christians, we believe that our eternal salvation is assured through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. We also understand that there is nothing we need to do – indeed, nothing that we can do – to contribute to that salvation. Jesus has done it all.
However, there is plenty that we can do in loving response to that gift of salvation. When we read through the gospels, Jesus frequently discusses how to live as his disciples. Jesus doesn’t just teach about life after death, but he teaches how to live fulfilled lives here on earth.
Today’s parable explains that we should live humbly rather than proudly. Assuming that we are important and worthy of special treatment is likely to end in humiliation when we are shown not to be quite as important as we thought. Humility is not how our society expects us to behave. We are expected to value success and to appreciate recognition of our achievements. Our society has numerous awards in the fields of arts, entertainment, education, science, the military and civil society. Every aspect of society seems to have winners and losers.
While most of us are humble about our achievements and even embarrassed by public recognition, I’m not so sure we are corporately humble about our congregations, agencies and church. How would you respond if you were asked, ‘What are you proud of in your congregation, school or agency?’ Should we be ‘proud’ of anything? I am sure there are many good and worthwhile aspects of all of these, and, surely, we should act in our vocations to the best of our ability. But should we be ‘proud’ of the outcomes? I am not sure. What is the appropriate balance of rightful encouragement and gratitude for the work of our family, friends and colleagues, and what is inappropriate pride and hubris?
Living humbly is hard, and it seems that it doesn’t fit well in today’s society, just as it didn’t fit well with the world in which Jesus was preaching.
Jesus, your parables invite me to look at myself humbly and honestly. Send the Holy Spirit to speak to my heart through your words, and guide me in how to live a humble, fulfilled and happy life here in your kingdom on earth. Amen.
Neil Bergmann represents the Lutheran Church on the Queensland Churches Environmental Network (QCEN), which has produced a free smartphone devotional for the Season of Creation (1 September to 4 October), available from the Apple and Android app stores.
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