Before we can understand true humility, we must
identify some characteristics of false humility. Jesus in the beatitudes speaks favorably of
the poor in spirit (for theirs is the kingdom of heaven) and of the meek (for
they will inherit the earth). We would
have to say that Jesus himself represents these qualities. We are well aware that Jesus did not shy away
from truth-telling regarding the hypocrisy and self-righteousness of the
scribes and Pharisees. But this
confrontation did not turn violent on Jesus’s part. He did not take up arms against them but
rather submitted to crucifixion at their hands. Yet, it bears repeating that during his
ministry he never backed down from verbal confrontation and honesty. Therefore, being poor in spirit and meek together
cannot mean ignoring bullies or joining in a complicit conspiracy of silence
regarding their attitude and behavior.
So the most essential test of true humility is
simple verbal honesty. This must arise
out of a heart of love. Otherwise, it
can turn into the judgmental dismissive attitude and hateful actions of the
scribes and Pharisees. Jesus bore no
quarter in speaking his mind, but he forbore taking up the violent instruments
of hate. Jesus’s exercise of outspoken discernment
without being self-righteously judgmental is confirmed primarily by his
willingness to go to the cross. True humility
reflects the paradox of being immensely strong yet totally meek. Jesus was indeed the Lamb of God.
Print Page
