
As disciples of Christ, we show forth a different way to live, compelled by the example of our Savior: “3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross (Phil 2:3-8 ESV).” Our Savior, the one who died selflessly in our place for our sins, is the example that should daily drive us from apathy to consideration of our fellow man. We do not exist to live for ourselves! We are called to live differently, not only in times of crisis, but everyday as we shine the light of Christ in this sinful world. Now, what about those whom we don’t like? Does this call extend to them as well? Yes! Remember what Jesus said: “But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil (Luke 6:35).” Many of us might be comfortable to be selfless toward our friends and family, but how many times are we selfless toward those whom get on our nerves? How many times do we go out of our way to be compassionate to those outside of our social circles? To be Christ-like, we must grow in our concern and benevolence toward all, not just those whom we prefer.
