Humility
Day 632, Tuesday, May 5
Philippians 1:27 – 2:11
Even as we avoid judging others, we are called to live exemplary lives of humility ourselves. “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.”
In chapter 2 Paul tells us, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each one of you to the interests of others.”
Paul’s writings often hold two apparently contradictory values in tension, challenging us to value both, such as law and grace, boldness and meekness, already and not yet. Today’s reading contains two such pairings that come up frequently.
Look to yourself and look to others. At times it seems that Paul views living the Christian life as something that must be worked out individually. Other times he tells us, as we just saw, to look to the interests of others.
Most of the time Paul is telling us to keep our judgment focused on ourselves, but to lift one another up. Beyond that we should understand that Paul considers living the Christian life to always be a community effort. The self is always to be seen as part of the whole.
Recognizing your weakness and being an example. Yesterday we talked about the difference between the fragile vessel and the lasting treasure it contains. We are called to the kind of humility that recognizes our limitations, but also to live lives worthy of the gospel.
Seeking to live lives that reflect the righteousness of Christ is part of the command to look to the interests of others—our rejection of sin can support others who are being tempted. But we are cautioned against trusting that it is our own strength that makes us righteous or believing that we are the ones bringing salvation to others.

Tuesday meditation

Psalms 119:49-56
Remember your word to your servant, for you have given me hope. My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life. The arrogant mock me unmercifully, but I do not turn from your law. I remember, Lord, your ancient laws, and I find comfort in them. Indignation grips me because of the wicked, who have forsaken your law. Your decrees are the theme of my song wherever I lodge. In the night, Lord, I remember your name, that I may keep your law. This has been my practice: I obey your precepts.

Prayer focus
Cleanse us, O God, that we may reflect your righteousness to others.

-Rev. Mark Fleming