Several years ago, I began to learn a lesson from my parents and grandparents. Like most children I wanted what I wanted when I wanted it. This included playtime, toys, and/or privileges. It was Christmas and I was disappointed that I didn’t receive all that I wanted. As I was moping about, my grandmother pulled me aside and rebuked me saying, “Ron John, it’s not about you.”
At that time it stung, even though I knew it was true. Later, after I had converted to Jesus as my Lord and Savior, I would learn the other truth, “It’s all about Him.” So that is our theme for 2017: “It’s Not about Me…It’s All About Him.”
The verse I’ve selected to promote this theme was Pauls’ reminder and summary to both Jewish and Gentile believers in Rome. He admonished the Gentiles to not be proud in their salvation because God had set Israel aside to graft in Gentiles (“Wild Branch”). Paul then reminds them that Israel will one day come back into God’s prominence. As Paul was overwhelmed by the unfathomable wisdom of God, he would with great enth-siasm declare Romans 11:36 “…of Him, and through Him, and to Him…”
This single verse, like Ephesians 1:12 encases the whole of the Christian life and purpose. It is a staunch reminder to the Christian crossing every era and generation. It is just what Millennials, Gen Xs, or the Baby Boomers need to see and practice. It is all about Him.
What would happen if we actually believed this and practiced it? First of all, there would be a lot less acting like baby Christians, who constantly walk around with “hurt feelings.” Secondly, our measure of success would be about pleasing Him instead of ourselves. We would measure ourselves not with others but with Christ and the Cross. Finally, it would alter our priorities, our purposes, and our practices.
This year let us remind ourselves and others that “It’s not about me…It’s all about HIM.”
Romans 11:36 For of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen.