It takes two humilities
Two humilities are required for accepting Christ’s sacrifice on our behalf. This is true because two versions of pride crop up in our hearts. The first says, “I don’t need saving,” and the second (which often masquerades as religious sincerity) says “I’m beyond saving.” How do we move past these twin dangers? With two humilities:
Humility One: Acknowledging Our Need for Salvation
The first humility beckons us to kneel in recognition of our innate human frailty. It requires a sincere acknowledgment that we, in our imperfection, stand in need of salvation. This humility dismantles the illusion of self-sufficiency, inviting us to lay bare our vulnerabilities before the divine. It's an admission that we cannot rescue ourselves from the pitfalls of sin, a humbling surrender to the reality that we are recipients of grace, not architects of our salvation.
Humility Two: Trusting in the Depth of Christ's Sacrifice
The second humility demands a courageous trust in the boundless nature of Christ's sacrifice. It compels us to confront the darkest corners of our souls, trusting that the redemptive power of Jesus's sacrifice can cover even our deepest sins and weaknesses. This humility is an act of faith, an unwavering belief that the grace bestowed upon us is not limited by the magnitude of our shortcomings. It takes courage to accept that, in Christ, our sins are not only forgiven but transformed into a testimony of His mercy.
As we navigate the intricate dance between these two humilities, may our hearts find solace in the profound simplicity of the gospel: that salvation is both a desperate cry for rescue and a confident trust in the unmatched efficacy of Christ's sacrifice.
Questions for reflection
Consider the areas of your life where self-sufficiency may have veiled your dependence on God's grace. What aspects of your journey require a humble recognition that salvation is a gift, not a self-earned achievement?
What are some areas where you struggle to believe in the fullness of Christ’s redemption. How might embracing this second humility deepen your faith journey?