Devotion: Humility
Please take the time to read Philippians 2:1-2
Imagine Paul, a jailbird, rejoicing in his cell over his life of joy in Jesus Christ. He writes a letter to the church in Philippi encouraging them to find that same joy by humbling themselves and renouncing personal recognition by serving others.
True humility is demonstrated when we reach out to someone without any motive or self-interest in mind. Some of the simplest acts of kindness bring the most joy to others.
Years ago, Minnie, an elderly lady, found joy every morning by waving from her front window to the students as they crossed the street to attend high school classes. For years, Minnie had rarely missed starting a young person’s day off right. Recently the students recognized 84 year old Minnie for her faithfulness to them. They invited her to visit the school not knowing that she was to be the honored guest. She was escorted into a packed gym with student cheers, flowers, and signs of “Thank You!” waving back to her. Overwhelmed and teary eyed, she whispered, “It was only a wave and a smile.” But to those students it meant the world that someone cared.
Pastor Sarah, in her sermon on Sunday, stressed that we find joy in being unified as the body of Jesus Christ. We are like puzzle pieces, each distinct with our own talents and gifts, but together we find joy in reaching out and serving others. At the end of every worship service we are challenged to “Go and serve the Lord”. And we reply with joyful hearts, “Thanks be to God!”
Dear Heavenly Father, Encourage and comfort us as we belong to you, oh Lord. Enable us to live in unity and common purpose with our brothers and sisters in Christ. Help us to relinquish our fragile egos as we live unselfishly and reach out to others in God’s love. Amen
Written by Janece Nelson
Janece and husband, Mike, have been members of Sheridan for more than twelve years. Janece is a retired mathematics instructor teaching at the middle school and college level. They are blessed with two children and three grandchildren.Janece finds her greatest joy in spending time with her family and friends. Her passion is writing devotions for patients in hospitals and rehabs she sees every Monday as a Sheridan hospital visitor. As a Teammate she also mentors girls at Boys Town. Janece credits Faith Builders and Companions in Christ for her spiritual growth.