In a self-promoting world where being seen, getting credit, and being #1 are coveted assets, it's rare to see someone in the spotlight who takes the back seat. As I sit here and watch the Lakers get completely thrashed by my Boston Celtics, the commentators are talking about Paul Pierce.
When the Celtics acquired superstars Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett, there was understandably a great deal of attention given to them. Paul Pierce, a superstar in his own right (and 1 of 2 Jayhawks on the Celtics roster!), never brought the spotlight his way. When Kevin Garnett received the Defensive Player of the Year, Pierce only supported his teammate. It is this unselfish, hard playing, defensive minded Celtic team that caused the greats from the past, such as Havlicek, Russell, Cousy and Bird to talk about this team.
The Celtics have a lot of talent, but that doesn't guarantee success. Most championship teams share one thing: selfless humility. Paul Pierce taking a back seat and humbling himself not only led to a Championship, but also an MVP trophy.
Philippians 2:8 (MSG) says about Jesus' death, "It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn't claim special privileges. Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death—and the worst kind of death at that—a crucifixion."
In order to live an obedient life toward God, it appears that two qualities are necessary: humility and selflessness. In other words, it is hard to be obedient while being proud and selfish. Think about it.
1 comment:
It's too bad that this can't happen in the church. Too many people want control because they tithe so much or were born and raised in "that" church. Jesus loved everybody the same and served all who came to Him. The church that finally get's it all together and works for Jesus, as He did, will truly be a "world Champion Church", just as the Celtics.
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