Wednesday, April 27, 2011

"Walk Humbly"

         
          Many years ago, Christian professor Stuart Blackie of the University of Edinburgh was listening to his students as they presented oral readings.  When one young man rose to begin his recitation, he held his book in the wrong hand.  The professor thundered, "Take your book in your right hand, and be seated!"  At this harsh rebuke, the student held up his right arm.  He didn't have a right hand!  The other students shifted uneasily in their chairs.  For a moment the professor hesitated.  Then he made his way to the student, put his arm around him, and with tears streaming from his eyes, said, "I never knew about it. Please, will you forgive me?"  His humble apology made a lasting impact on that young man.  This story was told some time later in a large gathering of believers.  At the close of the meeting a man came forward, turned to the crowd, and raised his right arm.  It ended at the wrist. He said, "I was that student. Professor Blackie led me to Christ.  But he never could have done it if he had not made the wrong right."
          Remember that our actions can cause others to reject or accept Christ.  We must walk humbly in this world, and not think of ourselves more highly than what we ought to think.  Yet, if and when we get puffed up and hurt others, we must be quick to admit our sin, and immediately seek forgiveness.  This life is not about self, but we live for Christ and others. Benjamin Franklin said, “A man wrapped up in himself makes a pretty small package.”

       

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