WEDNESDAY, September 2 (The Martyrs of New Guinea)

Some people seem stuck on themselves. Whether in a social setting or interaction with coworkers, we sometimes feel trapped by people who appear to be working too hard to convince us how important they are.

This happens even after death. How many obituaries have you read that went on for two columns, laboring to make a final statement of importance?

On the flip side, we also know people who are constantly self-effacing, who appear uncomfortable with any affirmation. When complimented, they deflect it or discount it.
Jesus gives us a middle ground. In his own life, Jesus never shied away from his power, healing the sick and casting out demons. But when face to face with Pilate he neither boasted nor denied, but allowed Pilate to identify him for who he was.

I strive to be honest about who I am, neither claiming more nor pretending to be less, so that in the end people will say, "He was who he was, a beloved child of God." And that will be enough.

PRAY for the Diocese of Sokoto (Kaduna, Nigeria)

Ps 38 * 119:25-48; 1 Kings 9:24-10:13; James 3:1-12

View the daily Lectionary Readings at Satucket.com.
Or view the Bible passages at Biblegateway.com.