Christmas Wish List Part 2
The Gift Nobody Wants: Why Humility is Better Than a Heated Blanket
If we’re being honest, humility is a terrible gift. I’d much rather give it to you than receive it myself. We naturally gravitate toward the "pet package" of Christianity: zero convictions, snacks on demand, and a loud bark whenever our comfort is threatened. We’ve become experts at "sunbeam calculus"—finding the exact spot where life is warmest and easiest.
But the Christmas story isn't about a King seeking comfort; it’s about a King seeking a cross. From the "kenosis" (emptying) described in Philippians 2 to the foot-washing basin in John 13, Jesus redefined greatness. He moved from infinite glory to diapers and splinters.
Being the Church means resigning from the "Tummy-Rub Nation." It means realizing that true transformation doesn't happen in the sunbeam of comfort, but in the shadow of the towel and the basin. This year, don't just ask for the fruits of the Spirit; ask for the root that sustains them all: Humility. It’s the only gift that actually makes us look like the One we celebrate.
But the Christmas story isn't about a King seeking comfort; it’s about a King seeking a cross. From the "kenosis" (emptying) described in Philippians 2 to the foot-washing basin in John 13, Jesus redefined greatness. He moved from infinite glory to diapers and splinters.
Being the Church means resigning from the "Tummy-Rub Nation." It means realizing that true transformation doesn't happen in the sunbeam of comfort, but in the shadow of the towel and the basin. This year, don't just ask for the fruits of the Spirit; ask for the root that sustains them all: Humility. It’s the only gift that actually makes us look like the One we celebrate.
Follow-Up Exercises
- The "Lowest Place" Audit: This week, look for one meeting, conversation, or chore where you can intentionally take the "lower" position or the less-glamorous task without telling anyone you’re doing it.
- Daily Prayer: Spend five minutes each morning praying: "Lord, let me decrease, and let You increase."
- The Comparison Fast: Identify one area where you "jockey for position" (like social media or office politics) and intentionally fast from self-promotion for 7 days.
Media Resourcing
This article comes from our Sermon Series Christmas Wish List. The following resources are meant to help you go deeper in this topic of the Gift of Reconciliation.
Posted in Christmas Wish List
Posted in #Christmas, #Humility, #Philippians2, #Discipleship, #Service
Posted in #Christmas, #Humility, #Philippians2, #Discipleship, #Service
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