August 25, 2021

A character in an Agatha Christie mystery described a suspect as an “unhappy success.” He said that many “successful” people are unhappy; they are driven to succeed to convince themselves that they are worthy and acceptable. Many people who are “failures”, on the other hand, are happy – they live without the constant pressure and expectation to succeed.

Be that as it may, the bible tells us that our worth and identity is entirely independent of our production, or lack thereof.  Paul, quite a success in his own milieu, says, “Whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” (Philippians 3:7-8)

That is a quick exit off the hamster wheel!

“Grant us, O Lord, to trust in you with all our hearts; for, as you always resist the proud who confide in their own strength, so you never forsake those who make their boast of your mercy; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.” (Proper 18 – BCP)