Daily Lenten Offering

I therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

—Ephesians 4:1-3

Holy God, your love was so great for humanity that you came and lived among us. With that same love, may I seek you with humility and gentleness — not that I might become small, but so that I might become your servant and friend. Amen.

Humility

In the Hebrew Scriptures and Christian Testament there are multiple words for humility. One means meekness, gentleness. Another is closer to self-deprecation, affliction, being put down. 

There are also multiple words for pride. One means "swollen estimate," like arrogance, boasting. Another is closer to glory, giving due praise.

God does not ask that we shrink or think poorly of ourselves. God desires that we embrace our fullness in such a way that honors our belovedness and the belovedness of our neighbor. Humility asks us not to place ourselves above others, and ultimately over God. 

Blessing

Each week, we suggest to you a short moment of pause and prayer before you leave the house, or maybe even just when you get out of bed.