One of the most fun times I have ever had as an adult was about seven or eight years ago. It was December and Christmas celebrations were in full swing. I genuinely LOVE my church family and wanted to rejoice in Christ's birth with them almost as much as with my biological family. With the all clear from Kevin, I started planning and sent the invitation to the young adult department at church. That was a group of about 20 - 25 families. Most of the time you can count on about half being able to attend, right? Isn't that what Emily Post says? Maybe even fewer because the Christmas season is so busy for everyone. Well, almost every single person came with their children who I had also invited because Christmas to me is also a time for families to be together. There were 78 people in our three bedroom house. IT. . .WAS . . . GREAT!!!
It was challenging logistically to say the least. There were people in the floor, people in our bedroom, in our kids bedrooms, and I made the announcement to everyone present that it made my so happy (gloriously happy) to have them all there! Like I said, one of the best memories! I told you that story to give all of you who do not know me personally a picture of my personality. I am not a bashful or timid type. I speak to almost everyone I see and most likely annoy some with my idle chit chat when standing close to me when waiting in line.
I have struggled with what it means to have a meek and quiet spirit. What is that supposed to look like? God has given me the ability and desire to touch lives. I have a love for the human soul. He has placed in me the desire to connect with people. This meek and quiet lady I had learned about in church does not cooperate with that personality. I felt like a failure. "Do not let your adornment be merely outward- arranging hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel- rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a meek and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God." 1 Peter 3:3-4. I thought about this a lot and rolled it around and around in my head. This is talking about how we present ourselves to others, and I am certainly NOT quiet. I beat myself up a lot, I thought I was supposed to be like Jane Bennett. Then I looked a little closer.
This verse is speaking against vanity and pride. Others are supposed to able to see into our heart. They are should be able to see our true spirit, the Holy Spirit. The word meek in the 1 Peter text comes from the Greek word praus meaning mild or humble. Quiet comes from the Greek word hesuchios meaning still, peaceable, or quiet. So in our spirit, our heart, we are to be humble, still, peaceable. "Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content" Philippians 4:11. We are not be stirred by every trial, scattered by the least inconvenience, tempted by worldly status, or measuring our life against the lives of others. Our heart is to be still and confidence in our position in Christ. "Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He himself has said, 'I will never leave you nor forsake you.'" Hebrews 13:5. Our lives should be spent bringing glory to Christ, not constantly being in a snit because something hasn't gone our way. We are to be peaceable and steadfast enduring with grace and dignity. It shows the great strength in whom we place our trust. That is a true meek and quiet spirit.
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