When I was a kid I used to love watching a lot of different cartoons. Mighty Mouse. Popeye. Hercules. Road Runner (I always felt sorry for the coyote). ‘Course that was the early days of Mickey Mouse, et al. Yosemite Sam. Deputy Dawg. I remember seeing one cartoon that had a lion whose favorite phrase was “I’m the king!” Then another character said, “Then I’ll crown you!” Then he would hit him over the head with something and a crown would appear as stars circled the lion’s head.
I know. Silly. Cartoons were supposed to be. But it was also pointed. A point I missed then but can’t now. Have you ever noticed how some people want you to know- or is that want you to think?- they are important? They puff out their chest, turn up their nose and look down on you. Or they make sure you know their pedigree. Or they inform you of the price of what they are wearing. Frankly, I could care less. To say it another way: I’m not impressed. I’m really not. I’m nobody special and feel really comfortable around people who feel the same. I’m a jeans and t-shirt kind of guy.
Someone has said, “Exceptional people are very capable people who are not yet full of themselves.” I’ve met them. At one time I suspect I was a blowhard. The truth is to be full of ourselves prevents us from seeing ourselves as we truly are. Many find themselves in “heady” positions. The key to real success in my eyes is not getting puffed up; it is not in a position or a title; it is being willing to see ourselves as a servant who washes the feet of another. Hmmm. Sounds like Someone else I know…the greatest person who ever lived.
“Father, help me not to become too full of myself. Let me follow in the footsteps of Jesus- don a towel and wash another’s feet.”
This song should help bring the point home as well as make your heart feel good.
Yes, LORD, and help me not to “puffed up” in being that servant.
When we are too filled with ourselves, there is no room for God. May we all have a servant’s heart.
Blessings, Bill!
I’m dealing with puffing up right now. Unfortunately it’s not the best place to be.