The beauty in humility

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves. —Philippians 2:3 

On a recent hiking trip, I witnessed the natural beauty of Zion National Park in Utah. The park guides directed us through the varied topography of the land. First, I recall the high mountain areas with unparalleled views and knee-deep layers of majestic white snow. Then in the valleys, the gorgeous canyons, powerful waterfalls, running rivers, and muddy red clay terrain. Initially, I was hesitant about getting dirty, but once I saw the beauty of the landscape, I was all in on the journey. I was attracted to the beauty in it all.

The path on my hiking adventure is like the path with Jesus. In following Jesus, we receive inspiration to be attracted to the highest of the highs and lowest of lows.  

There Is Beauty in The Lows 

Paul the Apostle declares that since there is encouragement in Christ, the comfort of love, the fellowship of the Spirit, and compassion and mercy, there is always a chance of experiencing unity. These binding elements allow people to unite and feel a deep sense of connectedness. Imagine taking away any of these ingredients. Now notice the change in recipe and, ultimately, the production of a different item on the menu.  

 The Apostle, formerly named Saul, knows what it is like to be on the outside or looked down upon. His experience was that of one who persecuted the church, even overseeing the death of a follower of Christ, Stephen (Acts 8:1-3). Saul actively sought to harm more followers of Christ when a light from heaven flashed and disabled his sight. Ananias, another disciple of the Lord, questions God as to why he wants him to help this type of man, saying, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he did to Your saints… he has authority to bind all who call on Your name.” Yet God saw beauty in the lows of Saul. 

 God saw a beauty that could contribute to the overall well-being of the church. He also inspired Ananias to know that beauty and lay hands on him for his restoration. Many are attracted to the beauty in those who are esteemed and who can make things good for them. However, on this faith journey with God, we are called to be attracted to those whom the world, those in the church, or even we view as lowly, not esteemed, of no reputation, and unable to reciprocate a favor shown.  

 Hear the call to see the beauty in one’s life beyond the divides of society, liberal or conservative, rich or poor, professional or unemployed, homeowner or homeless, and black or white. I hear the din of our world summarized to say, “My way is better than yours,” “Our view is better than yours,” “My people are better than yours,” or “We disagree, so now you’re canceled.” The beauty in one’s life is more incredible than the walls of division often used selfishly to hide the evidence of humanity housing God’s Spirit. These walls do not represent God. We represent God when we are humble and esteem others as more important than ourselves. 

Unity is Attractive 

Paul, desiring to inspire unity, continues by admonishing the Philippians to look out for their interests and the interests of others. In Greek, he says don’t just scope out your interest but scope out the interest of others. To combat the selfishness and empty conceit of the world, Paul desires that we have the attitude of Christ. 

What was this attitude demonstrated in Christ that generates unity? King David in the Old Testament would describe it as a beauty predicated on coming down in humility (Psalm 133). Paul in the New Testament portrays Christ’s attitude by highlighting His humility in becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross (Philippians 2:8). Notice the movements from the high to the low. The oil and the dew in Psalm 133 come down. Jesus becomes low, losing His heavenly prestige, dying the death of a Roman criminal. It’s as if the blessings from the higher place are also for those in the lower area. 

I hear the scriptures saying humility begets attraction, removes hierarchy, mends division, and bridges the divide between sinners and their God.

May God bless us with the humility that draws us to care unconditionally. May He grant us humility that yields unity with those we meet. May we praise Him for humbling Himself and being attracted to us in our low state.  

—Carl Ricketts Jr., MDiv, BCC, is director of Chaplain Services for Loma Linda University Medical Center.