Philippians 2:3-4 (NRSV) - True Happiness
Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others.
One of the biggest problems with being human is chasing happiness. It is in our DNA to find the next thing that brings us lasting pleasure. Even in our desire to give to others, we often choose something that we ourselves prefer. For instance, when I want to treat my family to lunch, I often suggest restaurants I either like or can more easily afford. Yes, we can be selfish even in our giving.
Paul’s words to the Philippian church remind me that true happiness is never laced with personal preference. True happiness is bereft of all selfishness. True happiness, moreover, is total submission to the interests of others. For I am never happier than when I abandon my own desires for the smiles, joy, and contentment of others. Although I may feel a buzz of delight when I treat myself to something, it never lasts. Instead, it is a temporary flare of excitement that fizzles into a smoky finish.
So why do I continue to chase the false flare of personal preference? Because I am very human and, therefore, flawed. I am, like those early Philippian parishioners, in need of Paul’s instruction -- a reminder that being more like the love of Jesus in this world is the only way to feel true personal satisfaction in anything.
Loving Father, I pray to be more like your Son. For Jesus came to this earth exemplifying humility and love for others over himself. Grant, dear God, that I, too, can do the same for those you have given me to love. In Jesus Christ I pray. Amen.
Peace,
Stan
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