Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience… Colossians 3:12 ESV

Was I thinking about humility yesterday morning, as I heard the words in the second reading? Or as I listened to a woman, speaking about her family loss? Or to another woman, relating stories about her large family gathering for Christmas? I would like to think so, but the qualities Paul mentioned in his letter to the Colossians are not my default. So, I must be intentional.

Humility: listening to others

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, Philippians 2:3 NIV

For me, humility begins by listening—my 2024 word—and by accepting others, staying calm and quiet, without needing to control or “fix” others. To cultivate a modest view of my own importance rather than self-centeredness, not thinking I am better than anyone else. This is the essence of healthy relationships. And patience when I or others fall short.

Humility: having an accurate self-opinion

In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” 1 Peter 5:5 NIV

Being humble means having a realistic view of myself, my strengths and weaknesses. This is the inner work. Expressing myself modestly, with self-deprecation is the outer work. Both are personal, profoundly personal, and rooted in faith.

Humility: grounded in spiritual modesty

Humility is the fear of the Lord; its wages are riches and honor and life. Proverbs 22:4 NIV

To understand my place in the world, I admit that I am not god and my awesome LORD is. Instead of focusing on my successes, failings, and wants, I recognize myself in relation to God and submit to Him in obedience. All I do is for His glory—that mindset is my goal. 

Many people of faith like word-for-the-year guidance to direct their thoughts and actions. From Becky Keife, Community and Editorial Manager for (in)courage:

“After I reflect on the twelve months behind me, I ask God what He wants me to know about the twelve months ahead. I ask God other questions like:

• What do You want me to focus on this year?
• What promise do You want me to cling to?
• How do you want to grow me to become more like You, Jesus?
• Where are you working, Lord, and how can I partner with You?
• Is there a specific word or phrase that You want to use to guide my year?”

Then she listens, waits, stills, breathes, and records whatever word the Holy Spirit brings to mind.

Another thought from A Time for Wonder: The Days of Advent Through the Eyes of Worship (Christianity Today) “The Ultimate Wonder: Celebrating the dependence and sacrifice of Christmas Day,” by Gabrielle McCullough

“As followers of Jesus and the way of life he offers his creation, the Christmas season offers an invitation to meditate on the humility of Jesus and seek to follow his lead. May we trade a craving for power for a craving for sacrifice. May we be marked by our patience with those who hurt us, our service to the least of these, and our unconditional love for our neighbor. And as we follow in his way, maybe we also assume a posture under his care as weak, needy, and dependent, for we are completely helpless without him. On Christmas Day, Jesus became weak in human form so that we might find life through him and his ultimate power.”

In Him with humility, I wish you a blessed New Year.

Note: Photo credit, the altar at Bethany Lutheran Church, by Ken Paulsen