Jesus “made himself of no reputation, taking the form of a servant” (Phil.2:7). “Let someone else praise you, not your own mouth— a stranger, not your own lips” (Prov.27:2). “Diotrephes, loves to be first...” (3 Jn.1:9). “If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness” (2 Cor.11:30).
Dear Jesus, over the past several months, I keep “bumping” into the wisdom of words my spiritual dad (Jack Miller) spoke decades ago: “A reputation is too heavy of a load for a child of God to carry. Jesus is your righteousness and that is all the reputation you need.”
Caring too much about what others think of us will crush us. Working to get into the “inner circle” will seduce, exhaust, then destroy us. Loving to be first, like Diotrephes, can get our name in the Bible, but as a warning, not a blessing. Jesus, have mercy on us, and free us.
I’m more grateful than ever for friends, leaders, and colleagues who love the Gospel, boast in their weakness, and live as chief-repenters. They “puff” themselves down, not up. They encourage others more than they work to be noticed. Platforms are for high-divers. Brands are for cereals. Trademarks are for inventions. But a towel and a basin (John 13) are for those who know, love, and follow you.
Jesus, if you choose to give us 10 more years, months, or weeks… fill them with yourself. Continue to astonish and nourish our hearts with your beauty, goodness, and truth. Everything else will take care of itself. So Very Amen.