At the young age of 20, our main concern is the perception of others. However, as we grow older, particularly at age 40, we start to care less about what people think of us. By the time we reach 60, we realize that they haven’t been thinking of us at all, as noted by Ann Landers.
In today’s Gospel according to Matthew 11: 25-30, Jesus teaches us the value of humility. He reveals that the Father hides wisdom from the wise and learned, instead choosing to reveal it to the “little ones.” Jesus himself sets the example by saying, “Learn from me for I am meek and humble of heart.”
Feeling tired and burdened? It could be because we lack meekness and humility in our hearts. Perhaps we’re moving too fast, aiming too high, or not acknowledging the need for guidance. External factors may contribute to our weariness, but it’s our mindset and attitude that truly impact us. The Lord instructs us to embrace meekness and humility, which will bring us rest and peace.
Just as a GPS recalculates our route when we wander off-track, perhaps we should reevaluate how we perceive ourselves, how others perceive us, and most importantly, how God perceives us.
WHO YOU THINK YOU ARE. Having an inflated self-image can lead to either success or damage. Society encourages us to think big and aim high, but it fails to mention the potential consequences such as exhaustion, illness, unhappiness, loneliness, depression, and emptiness that can come with striving for greatness at all costs. On the other hand, a humble self-image is less stressful, allowing for flexibility and forgiveness. The key lies in finding meaning rather than focusing solely on achieving success.
WHO OTHERS THINK YOU ARE. Basing our self-worth on public opinion can leave us vain and empty, turning us into social entertainers desperate for applause. However, we must remember that a crowd is transient, and their cheers or silence should not affect us. We should not measure ourselves by the standards of others. The road to humility leads us away from the chaotic crowd.
WHO GOD THINKS YOU ARE. While we may deceive ourselves and others, we cannot deceive God. He knows us intimately, understanding our thoughts and actions. Psalm 139:1-2 states, “You have searched me, and you know me, You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.” Only when we align ourselves with God’s perception do we truly see ourselves accurately and realize our potential.
Humility serves as the foundation for all other virtues. If there are negative attitudes and bad habits we wish to eliminate – such as a bad temper, strained relationships, impatience, arrogance, or addictions – embracing humility and meekness will guide us towards overcoming these obstacles on our journey.
A transformative breakthrough occurred in my own life when I finally accepted that I am neither as good as I believe nor as bad as others may perceive me to be. This humble realization, brought about by God’s grace, brought a refreshing change.
Consider this: Humility involves acknowledging that God exists, and we are not Him. It also means recognizing that we are just one of many individuals in this world.
Let us pray to the Lord for guidance on the path of meekness and humility, ensuring that we do not lose our way. Amen.
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