Mark 8:34 (NLT)
Then, calling the crowd to
join his disciples, he said, “If any of you wants to
be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, and
follow me...
Jesus wanted both his disciples and the crowd to understand that
continual repentance from selfishness is a mark of a true disciple. As we are
all very selfish by nature this is surely one of the most difficult obligations
to accomplish. We must constantly be looking beyond ourselves and our personal
needs. Whatever our situation are we concerned for others? Critically, when we
have choices to make concerning our use of time and resources, do we serve
ourselves or others? Very selfish people have few friends and are avoided by
most people, their conversation is self centred and they are not even interested
in others. They are only happy talking about themselves and their own
achievements. Although they may say some interesting things they tend to drain
life and energy rather than offer it. What are we like? Are we conversation givers? Do we ask
appropriate questions, listen perceptively, show empathy, and bring healing,
insight and hope?
Father may you
show me how to flee selfishness and give myself to others.
