True Greatness
I recently read a book by C.J. Mahaney on the subject of Humility. He talks candidly and even practically about what it means to be great. Not great in the eyes of the world, mind you…but great in the eyes of God.
You are most likely aware that the two happen to look radically different.
Neither am I surprised by the discovery. Remember the Sunday School song touting the way to “be great in God’s kingdom?” Today I feel the need to remind myself that the answer to real and lasting greatness is not in career success, the praise of others, or the size of my bank account. There is nothing about fame, fortune or friends in the verses that inspired that childhood tune, but rather a (literally) humiliating suggestion that removes you from the centre of the formula:
“Learn to be a servant of all.”
Sound familiar? I’ve got to say…if being a servant is what it takes to be great, then some of the greatest people I know have got to be moms. And don’t despair if some days the label “slave” is a better descriptor…you are not alone. But lately I’ve been humbled by the examples of true greatness you show on a regular basis.
You.
The one exhausted and broken by what she thinks is Post Partum Depression, yet chooses to deal with it through a selfless and unceasing prayer that God would pour out His love to her children through her and in spite of her.
The one who works long and hard night shifts to supplement their family income so her husband can do a noble work in a profession that pays in eternity rather than the present.
The one who regularly confesses her mistakes and inadequacy to her children; apologizing and openly admitting her sins.
The one who gives 110% 24-7, slugging through routine as a single parent for days at a time while her husband is absent due to shift work…and yet mothers gracefully and lovingly even under utter exhaustion (You have been such an example to me in my circumstances).
The one who overcomes childhood agony or a lack of parenting role models, and refuses to live a life of blame…becoming in turn a light for Jesus among the dark hurts of her extended family a she mothers her own child with integrity.
The one who longs for a child as desperately as for another breath, and in spite of nature’s lack of cooperation, rests her trust in God’s sovereignty rather than her own plan for her life.
The one who tirelessly combs scripture and seeks wise counsel to learn God’s plan for mothering with excellence – putting self aside as she examines her heart and accepts correction.
Talk about humility.
Talk about inspiring.
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