Christmas Perspective

I am, unfortunately, prone to the occasional bout of whining. Often, it comes in some form of self-pity that believes my life should be different, that I shouldn’t have to face things I want to avoid or go without things I want. This is typically when I hear the voice of a good friend shouting, “First world problems.”

There is a lot of truth to that statement, but there is an even greater truth that I am tempted to forget. I am not the center of the universe. Never has, nor will, the world revolve around me, and any challenges I face must be kept in perspective by remembering my place in relationship to others.

Just last night, our church received a request from a family for help this Christmas. With no money for a Christmas tree or presents, and facing some severe needs, they were reaching out for help. No sooner did I receive the request, than I felt the Holy Spirit say, “These are real problems. Help them, and while you are at it, watch your perspective.”

In his letter to the Philippians, the Apostle Paul reminded them, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” (2:3, NIV) He knew the heart of his listeners, maybe the heart of every listener. It is all too easy to think that our world is the whole world and simply ignore those around us, caught up in all of our own issues. It was an important reminder, and it remains a significant call upon all of our lives. Great things happen when embrace a way of life that values others ahead of ourselves.

Humility is a challenging concept, but one that is at the heart of the Christmas message. Jesus chose to leave his heavenly position to become one of us in order to liberate us from sin and death, and to give us new life. The very nature of the incarnation, God in human flesh, is an expression of humility that seeks to lift others up.

The popular author, C.S. Lewis once wrote, “True humility is not thinking less of yourself, it is thinking of yourself less.” The goal of embracing a humble life is not to think poorly of ourselves or to treat ourselves badly. True humility is about seeing the value in others and being willing to take second place. The modern Bible translation, the Message, expresses Romans 12:10, “ Love from the center of who you are; don’t fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.” Real humility is practicing playing second fiddle.

We all have days where we get lost in our wishes, wants, and desires, but with a little Christmas perspective, we can embrace the humble spirit of Jesus, put others ahead of ourselves, and find the true meaning of life that is found in relationship with Jesus and others.

 

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