Radical
Dan Kunz
Not too long ago, I heard someone use the expression, “Radical humility.” I’m not sure of the context, but that certainly could be a description of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, as he came to earth and lived out thirty-plus years as a human being. We really have no way of grasping the full impact of being the Creator, and then willingly becoming part of the creation. From his birth in a “barn” to his execution as a criminal, Jesus’ life was one of radical humility.
Anyone familiar with the 1960’s in our country, understands the significance of the term “radical”. Blowing up a research facility to protest a war, robbing banks to fund a movement to make the world a better place, and using psychedelics to “free” your mind are just a few of the radical ideas of that time in American history. It seems kind of crazy, doesn’t it? The same might be said of Jesus’ brand of humility. The king of the universe sleeping in a stinky, slobbery animal trough. The framer of the Ten Commandments willingly obeying his parents’ wishes. The judge of all mankind tried and convicted by a kangaroo court. Who would willingly go through that? His brand of humility is so far outside the box, it’s not even on the same page. You couldn’t even see it with binoculars! It was truly radical.
In our ever self-promoting world, such radical humility seems impossible and yet, what better way to reflect the grace which God himself has shown us? His grace is also radical. It’s beyond comprehension, really. Our Heavenly Father shows love, not just to the undeserving, but to those who hate him, disobey him, and want nothing to do with him. Radical love should prompt radical humility on our part. When we put others’ wants and needs ahead of our own, we are truly imitating Jesus. Out of absolute love, “God made him, who did not know sin, to become sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in him.” II Corinthians 5:21 Pastor Mike Novotny, of Time of Grace, has distilled radical humility into the phrase, “You first.” To much of the world, that’s a truly radical concept!
How do you know if you’re practicing radical humility? You could ask someone who knows you well and is willing to be honest, such as your parents, your children, or your spouse. You can do an occasional “checkup” of your interaction with others. For example, at the end of the workday you can ask yourself if you could have handled this situation or that with more humility. You can devise a plan of action in advance and ask, “How would Jesus approach this”? “Mindfulness” is a popular topic nowadays. Being mindful of your mood, feelings, and thoughts is important, but being mindful of your impact on others is equally important. Does your humility reflect your Savior’s humility and lead others to him?
No matter the situation or circumstances, radical humility is always a good character trait and one which we can learn from Jesus himself!