Humility

Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Philippians 2:5-8 (ESV)

The opposite of pride, humility is a virtue.  But how many of us really understand it?

Maybe it helps to talk about what humility is not.  It is not a talented musician denying his talent.  It is not a beautiful woman claiming she is ugly.  That is more like hypocrisy!

As is true of all virtues we look to Jesus Christ to see what humility truly is.  Stop and think about who Jesus is.  John 1:1-5 makes it clear that he is creator.  "Without him was not anything made that was made."  Yet, the creator became a creature, just like us.  He is King of kings, yet he became servant of all.  He is Lord of lords yet he wrapped himself in a towel and washed the dirty feet of his disciples.  He lived a completely sinless life yet he died the death of a criminal in our place.  He is ruler of all yet he became obedient.  

There is true humility.  Maybe you are a talented musician.  Then rejoice in the one who gave you that talent and use it in His service.  Be willing to reach out to the littlest child who wants to see your instrument or hear your voice.  

I am reminded of two events which occurred years ago while we were living in Nigeria.  My husband had call to visit a Christian businessman at his office.  While there the man offered my husband something to drink as is the custom. He then called to his secretary in the next office to get a drink for my husband.  The woman came into the office, walked around the desk and went to the small refrigerator next to the man's desk.  From there she brought out soft drinks for my husband and the businessman.  

On another occasion a rather large group of men were gathered for a meal in the home of one of the missionaries.  As I recall these were men who had been invited to speak at an event we were  having.  Among them was the medical doctor who was certainly the most educated among them.  As these men sat at the table waiting for the meal to be served the doctor noticed the basin and pitcher that had been prepared for carrying to each of the guests so they could wash their hands before eating.  He quietly got up, put a towel over his arm, picked up the basin and pitcher and carried it to each person at the table allowing them to wash their hands. 

If the creator of the universe can wash feet, you can clean up someone else's mess.. 

If the King of kings can live on earth as a poor carpenter you can give up some "stuff" so that those who have never heard the gospel can have a chance.  Maybe you can even leave your comfortable home and get outside your comfort zone and become a servant like Him.