Romancing The Rock

In respect of the fact that my new novel was released today(that’s it over at the top of the right hand side-bar), I wanted to write about one of the themes it contains: humility.

In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:  Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” [Philippians 2:5-8 NIV]

Photo by H Dominique Abed

Pride is such a prevalent thing in our society. We look down on others in lower socio-economic situations or those with shameful pasts. We think people are less-than if they don’t wear nice clothes, or if they smell different, or if they have a disability, or if they have an opposing belief system.

None of these attributes, however, can actually measure the value of a person. The value in a human life lies in the fact that they are created by God, in His image, no less. Why then, do we use the world’s measuring standards? Too uncomfortable? Embarrassing?

But, the Lord Himself, lowered himself to the lowest form – that of a servant – and even allowed Himself to be punished and abused for that which He did not do, to the point of an unspeakable execution. He did that in order to have relationship with all kinds of people, be they high-class or low, healthy or sick, rich or poor, clean or unclean, sinner or saint. Including you.

In the same way, we need to be able to befriend and care for those in any circumstances, from any backgrounds, without disdain and without condescension. In God’s eyes, we are all equal – of equal value – and that is a priceless value. We need to look at others through His eyes.

How can you reach out to someone this week, who is normally looked over by most people? Just a thought.