It’s Just Who I Am

Recently while visiting some friends in Seattle, Washington. I was introduced to someone I had never met before. We all gathered on that evening for a night of singing and as our time together came to a close we all began our departure. I had heard earlier, this person was not a “hugger” however, in my overbearing personality I decided to hug them anyway. Simply because “It’s just who I am”.

But for some reason, that decision still bothers me today and it’s not because of what they say, in fact it was accepted. It’s not because of what anyone else said either. But because, of my reason behind doing it.

I have realized the inconsiderate nature in consciously disregarding another persons boundaries because of our own character. This reminder stemmed from some of the greatest leaders in the history of Christianity beginning with Christ Himself who…

1. Despite “who He was” would empty Himself, took the form of a bond-servant, humbled himself and suffered death all for the sake of us according to Philippians 2:7-8. The Hebrew writer in chapter 12:2 tells us instead of the joy He had before Him, He turned towards the cross and endured it.
2. Paul despite “who he was” in Christ, made himself a slave to all men, so that all men may be won according to 1 Corinthians 9:19 thus, encouraging us in Philippians 2:3 to have that very same attitude.
3. However, Peter being a Jewish Christians had a struggle with this concept,. So much so, he told the Lord that he wouldn’t touch anything unclean. In other words, “Lord this is who I am”. But we know from our reading of Acts 10:11-29 that excuse did not fly.

therefore, because of their examples it should not fly in my life as well. I too, should be willing to humble myself for the sake of others in order that they may be won over or edified. Christian readers, just because we claim to be a certain way does not excuse us from being servants of one another and being considerate of each other boundaries.

Be Blessed