Everyone knows that humility is a positive trait and pride is a negative one. So, why bother talking about what we already know? Because we cannot help but think that our ascent to the exalted status we desire is our responsibility. We even take our exaltation into our own hands, either by treating poorly those we believe we can stand on top of or by showing favoritism to those we believe can provide us with upward mobility. Rather than minimizing pride as a sin that is common or harmless, Jesus’ words today confront us with this unconventional truth. Those who exalt themselves will be humbled by God. But Jesus also gives us the promise we need to be freed from pride’s trap. Our exaltation doesn’t need to be our responsibility because Jesus has already made it his. Those who humble themselves, Christ will exalt.
As Jesus teaches truth, he often challenges conventional wisdom. He reverses the normal and natural order of things. What he has to say may upset and even offend us. This should not surprise us, considering this Teacher’s life and work are the opposite of what one would expect. When the truth is unconventional, the first temptation is to deny it. The second temptation is to simply ignore it. But, Listen and take to heart what Jesus says! For his Word, though often unconventional, gives eternal life.