What Does Humility Look Like?

April 10, 2022

What Does Humility Look Like?

By Brooke Holt

Almighty and everliving God, in your tender love for the human race you sent your Son our Savior Jesus Christ to take upon him our nature, and to suffer death upon the cross, giving us the example of his great humility: Mercifully grant that we may walk in the way of his suffering, and also share in his resurrection; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. (Book of Common Prayer, Year B, Sunday of the Passion: Palm Sunday)

Today, we read about the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. Jesus, the Son of God, the promised Messiah, and the King of all kings, rode on a donkey. Contrast Jesus with the Roman kings, who processed into town in fancy chariots led by powerful horses and followed by their forces, captives, and spoils. The Roman tribute was like a religious ceremony, and the kings loved to herald their military success and parade their power before the people.

Before the incarnation, Jesus, the eternal God who was in the beginning, enjoyed all the benefits of glory (John 1:1–3). But in humility, he came to earth as a baby and lived as one of us (John 1:14). Power and glory to weakness and humanity—what a transition! As a man, Jesus humbled himself to depend upon earthly parents, to experience hunger and thirst, to undergo temptation, and even to die.

As we celebrate Jesus this Palm Sunday, God’s word invites us to marvel at the humble king who is above all things yet chooses to ride into Jerusalem on a donkey. Yes, his humble procession was to fulfill Scripture, but it was also to demonstrate the character of King Jesus—his humility (Zechariah 9:9).

Our Collect today reminds us of the humility of Jesus while also calling us to walk in his example. Though a King, Jesus chose to humble himself time and again. He never demanded to be heard, understood, or followed. Instead, Jesus taught in parables, called people to faith, and invited believers to build the kingdom.

As we also choose to humble ourselves, embrace the suffering of being a disciple of Jesus Christ, and follow Jesus, we are promised the hope and joy of his resurrection. Though Jesus humbled himself for a time, he was resurrected and exalted. His humility is over, and his glory is restored. We, too, will know humility in this world and exaltation in the world to come. Let us celebrate Jesus, our Savior, “the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself” (Philippians 3:20–21).

Reflection:

This week, you are invited to share in the sufferings of Christ and celebrate the miracle of resurrection. Spend time asking the Lord to help you walk faithfully with Jesus in humility. We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

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