For some people they have decided it is who you know that is important; the people who can move you forward and up the ladder of success in life. There are also those who focus on the significance of being known; flaunting their abilities and accomplishments so that they will be chosen for the special projects. Both of these focuses are actually more about self than others? Are we so focused on ourselves we give no thought to the significance of others around us? Are we guilty of failing to acknowledge the contributions others are making in our own life whether directly or indirectly? Do we take for granted the service others offer as if those persons did not even exist? How often do we appear unaware of others who are actually within the sphere of our own life?
The story has been told of a college professor who gave his class a pop quiz. The last question was, “What is the first name of the woman who cleans the school?” In response to one student who asked if the last question would count toward the quiz grade, the professor responded, “Absolutely. In your careers you will meet many people. All are significant. They deserve your attention and care, even if all you do is smile and say ‘hello.’” Both the lesson and the woman’s name were not forgotten.
Lest we find ourselves thinking so much of ourselves (i.e. Romans 12:3) we forget about the significance of others, let us take to heart Paul’s exhortation to Christians at Philippi where we read. . .
“(3) Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. (4) Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:3-4 ESV)
Humbly bearing in mind we are in this life together with others where opportunities arise to serve and be served, let us not consider lightly even the seemingly small ways in which life is made better by what others do on a day-to-day basis. Since, if those things weren’t done we would probably notice, may we gratefully acknowledge the various ways in which the lives of others impact our own life and how life would therefore not be the same without them!
Have a great day DULY GRATEFUL FOR THE LIFE CONTRIBUTIONS OF OTHERS!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
