Lenten Reflection Day 13

“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted” MT 23:1-12. Humility, one of the greatest virtues. The ability to recognize that there is one bigger than ourselves, God, and to live accordingly. As we reflect upon our own lives this Lent we may notice some darkness, some areas of sinfulness that we need to address. Admitting that we have made mistakes takes humility. Going to confession is a great act of humility, one rewarded 100 fold by the grace of God’s mercy and forgiveness. Many great saints down through the ages have spoken and written about humility and how it is essential to earning our Heavenly reward. Blessed Mother Teresa led a life of humility as she cared for the unwanted, undesired, ill and neglected people through her work with the Missionaries of Charity. Though she wanted no attention or reward for herself, she was sought after the world over by the poor and wealthy, famous and unknown alike. She often spoke about humility and its importance within our daily lives. She gave a list of 15 ways to grow more humble and she made the sisters within her order practice them. Consider these a “Best Practices” from a saint that lived among us and now intercedes for us.
Blessed Mother Teresa’s List
1. Speak as little as possible about yourself.
2. Keep busy with your own affairs and not those of others.
3. Avoid curiosity (as in things that don’t concern you).
4. Do not interfere in the affairs of others.
5. Accept small irritations with good humor.
6. Do not dwell on the faults of others.
7. Accept censures even if unmerited.
8. Give in to the will of others.
9. Accept insults and injuries.
10. Accept contempt, being forgotten and disregarded.
11. Be courteous and delicate even when provoked by someone.
12. Do not seek to be admired and loved.
13. Do not protect yourself behind your own dignity.
14. Give in, in discussions, even when you are right.
15. Choose always the more difficult task.
CHALLENGE: If you find yourself still searching for a Lenten goal, might I suggest trying to live out Blessed Mother Teresa’s road map to humility. If you already are working on a Lenten observance, perhaps you would be willing to supplement with this suggestion. We could all benefit from living a life rooted in humility. Just think what the chain reaction would be if we emphasized the virtue of humility more within our society. How much better our world could be!
Blessings to You and Yours!