Humility
Jesus' observations of the Pharisees is one of his teachings in humility. He pointed out that the Pharisees craved for recognition in public places, and wanted to be accorded seats of honour in the synagogues and in banquets, to be addressed as 'Rabbi' in the market places thinking that by doing so, they will be respected. In a way, they are lording over the people and this is in complete contrast to their teachings.
We see this behaviour of scrambling for status and power common in office politics and it is a challenge to stay balanced between pride and humility. But we must know that in playing the same game as them, often times it leaves us stressed, anxious and our energy drained, thus preventing us from spending quality time with our families. Is this what we want in this short life? What are our priorities?
Jesus's teaching is simple: "whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." If we can bear this in mind, then God's gifts for us will suffice in our daily needs. As CS Lewis wrote: " Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less." In thinking of ourselves less, we will have the eyes and the heart to see poverty and sickness around us...and that should move us to service, to want to help those less fortunate than us in whatever ways we can.
I slept and dreamt that life was joy,
I awoke and saw that life was service,
I acted and behold, service was joy!
-Rabindranath Tagore-
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