Stand Out

Matthew 23:11-12

"Do you want to stand out? Then step down. Be a servant. If you puff yourself up, you'll get the wind knocked out of you. But if you're content to simply be yourself, your life will count for plenty." - Jesus

I used to think this was saying "Don't stand out. Good Christians don't draw attention."

But I think Jesus is actually making the point that if we humble ourselves and serve others, we will stand out, because this is different to normal.

Think of the surprise the disciples got when Jesus washed their feet. And accepted Judas' kiss. And walked to the cross.

Jesus stood out. And his kingdom does stand out on these points. And we will too, if we live like humble servants, care for our enemies (who else does that?), look to advance others instead of ourselves, pray hard, dream big for our world.... We'll stick out like a sore thumb.

Here's the paradox: it doesn't work when we try to stand out. That's just like the rest of the world. It only works when we try to live like Jesus, and don't care about being noticed.

There's no award for the best Christian in the world. We just love.