A DEEPER RESPONSE

One of our strongest innate human instincts is self-preservation and survival. In most situations, our first reaction is: “How do I save myself?” And, perhaps those closest to us. Our next reaction is, “Can I benefit from this situation in some way?” As an instinctive reaction, self-preservation is not necessarily wrong, but neither of these responses is likely to bring out our best. Followers of Jesus are called to a deeper response, particularly when we have opportunities to make a more intentional choice between prioritizing ourselves or the kingdom of God. Indeed, our natural instincts are why we need to be more careful, thoughtful, and prayerful in choosing how we respond to threats to our wellbeing in the world around us, seeking a deeper response than what is merely instinctive. Jesus said that if we focus on preserving ourselves and the things that we assume make up our lives, we will lose in the end—if not sooner.

But if we can shift our focus and priorities away from ourselves, we can live more freely and courageously. Many people have found this kind of freedom in the practical work of serving others. Others lose themselves—in the best sense—in creating art and beauty or some other activity that demands their best work in contributing to goodness in our world. Whatever they might be, these “losing ourselves” experiences are a glimpse of the kingdom of God. At times, in our broken world, “losing ourselves” can mean a more serious kind of self-sacrifice. We would not choose such circumstances, but we do choose how we respond, albeit only with the grace and courage that comes from our trust in God.

Even then, taking the focus away from ourselves offers a kind of freedom, reclamation, and renewal of our lives that might not otherwise be possible.

We can hold on to even our very lives loosely, trusting ourselves to God and His care and provision.