HARDWICK – It’s hard to look at all the things happening in our world and think we can have an impact. It’s difficult to know how to make a difference. How can we live out our lives in ways that are meaningful, important and life-giving to our world?
One overarching way is described in the book of Philippians (2:3-5): “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus.”
How can I not be selfish or vain or conceited? How can I be humble and value others above myself, looking to their interests instead of my own? How can the relationships I have in my family, with my friends, at work, in the community and at play be relationships that nourish, build and create positive experiences?
This verse tells us to have the mind of Christ. To think as He did. He only followed God. He gave of Himself in healing, teaching, praying, mentorship and sacrifice. The rest of the verses after these tell of Jesus being in very nature God, but did not think equality with God was something to be grasped instead He humbled Himself and became a servant to all.
This mind of Christ is beyond my reach; too hard to grasp. I cannot fathom it. But Christ said, when He left His earthly form behind, He would leave a Comforter, an Advocate, One who would remind us of all Christ said. One who would work through us. The Holy Spirit comes to be with us, takes residence up in us, so that we can have the mind of Christ.
The fruit of the Spirit, what the Spirit produces, is outlined in the book of Galatians. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things, the scripture says, there is no law.
How can that be?
Because these things benefit all who practice them and all who receive them.
These qualities of the Spirit bring people together in community.
These qualities are the epitome of inclusion, compassion and justice.
These qualities are the opposite of selfish ambition and vain conceit.
These qualities hold strength and power that are other-worldly.
When we look to the interests of others and not just to our own, we are operating with the mind of Christ. And that changes things, including ourselves.
Rev. Avril Cochran is currently the pastor at The United Church of Hardwick and a registered nurse working as the clinical director for Orleans/Essex VNA and Hospice.
