Surely, Not I Lord

Matthew 26: 22 They were very sad and began to say to him one after the other, “Surely not I, Lord?”

There is a wise saying that goes something like this. “Never say never and do not ever say always. Life has a way of altering all conditions in ways you can scarce imagine.” Have you ever encountered anyone who was filled with pride, a person who could be called prideful? This type of person is very self confident, maybe even self reliant. Reliance on oneself can leave a person in a precarious position. That person is constantly on the precipice of being overwhelmed, but never thinking it could happen. Reality can be a harsh mistress.

Humility is an admirable quality. For the humble person, things come easy. Self reliance, self pride do not hinder the ability of the Holy Spirit to fill their hearts with faith. Reliance on God to provide all things needed is readily accepted. And knowing God has a plan for all is how a humble life is lived. But for those who set aside humility, there is a nasty wake up call on the horizon. Think about the Disciples from Matthew 26:22. They were very sad and began to say to him one after the other, “Surely not I, Lord?”  To say they were self confident would be something of an understatement. Betraying Christ would fall squarely first on the shoulders of one of their number. Judas was the first. But each, in their own way would betray Christ and all that he had called upon them to do and be. The once mighty would all fall.

Interestingly enough, one of the most bold, Peter would later share some very sage advice in 1 Peter 5:5-8 for each of us to follow. Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all you anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking someone to devour. That roaring lion looking for someone to devour is very real, and ever present. Do not make the mistake of thinking otherwise. Put aside foolish pride, cloak your life with humility and the love of God. Put on the armor of Christ. For if you think surely “Not I” will work then surely you will be in for a rude awakening. No one can stand alone. No one can survive this life. All will say good bye to their mortal life. And those who find safety and comfort in the Good Shepherd Jesus Christ will be brought home as a sheep of His flock. The same loving God who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will do just that for all who follow His Son. Stay close to that Good Shepherd and stay humble.

PRAYER: Lord, our world falsely preaches self pride and self confidence as qualities to admire. When in reality Father, Your Word reminds us to be humble and reliant on You. Your Word speaks truth. Our world speaks lies. Help us to ignore what our world tells us, and to follow the path of Your Son. We ask this in the name of the Good Shepherd Jesus who with the Father and Spirit are one God now and forever, Amen.