Lent #7 - Live Up

Philippians 3:12-4:1 On Christian Maturity

O Lord it's hard to be humble, 
when you're perfect in every way.

You might recognize this old country song by Mac Davis. It was meant to be satirical; a poke to remind all of us that this is not who we really are. And even if we would say it (or sing it), deep inside all of us, regardless the health or nature of our self-esteem, we know without a shadow of a doubt that we are not perfect. In fact, far from it, no matter how much we think we get better looking each day.

Many of us are not truly humble either. I know humility is one of those things that's hard to achieve, because once we've reached a level of humility we get proud of ourselves; and that defeats the purpose! Some even mistake self deprecation with true humility. But that's not it either and can often be a tactic for attracting attention (even subconsiously) rather than deflecting it.

There is one area of humility that may come naturally for most of us; when we read or hear and finally accept that we are the Beloved of God! Just the fact that the God of the universe, who created all things, who has so much more important things to do, thinks of us is nearly inconceivable. Yet if it's true (and it is), then what's next?

Paul's letter to the Philippians describes his own humility (I know that's hard to do, but he tries.) by explaining his history as a Pharisee and a very good one at that. But in the midst of his faithfulness as a follower of God he discovered that he didn't have to work to make God love him, and that rocked his world as it shifted his whole perspective. And once he was able to accept this new reality instead of working less, he worked all the more, but not to make God love him more (or as it is often stated in scripture, to achieve a righteousness according to the law), Paul began working to live up to his status with God.

Paul began living up to the expectations of God. Understanding that he didn't have to earn God's favor, he simply wanted to act in such a way that would make God proud (not unlike what we do/did for our parents). It's about living up and fully embodying a status that already exists. (or as Henri Nouwen calls it, "becoming the beloved" once you accept that you already "are the beloved of God.")

Our task during Lent has many features. One of them is to really believe that God accept us. The next one is to find ways to live up to this and both are humbling propositions. I like how Paul stated it so simply, "not that I have already obtained this or have already reached the goal; but I press on to make it my own because Christ Jesus has made me his own."

Live up for a Holy Lent!

Peace ><>
Pastor Chris