Maturing Downward
Publication Date
8-29-2001
Publication
The Christian Century
Document Type
Article
Abstract
Can ambition coexist with self-emptying, humility, obedience? If we try to moderate our ambition with altruism, ambition will win and self-deception will intensify.
Rather, we need a transformation of what we desire, what we aspire to and count as important. Our lives are to be focused on Christ and appropriate, faithful service to Christ. In order to unlearn sin—including bitter envy and selfish ambition—and learn the ways of holy living, we need to cultivate a common life with others in Christian community. Our brothers and sisters in Christ become resources for us, offering both support and challenge in discerning how to serve Christ most faithfully. And we become resources for them. The task is to cultivate the same mind that was in Christ Jesus, maintaining a consistent vigilance against bitter envy and selfish ambition—and against the ennui that can set in if and when others seem more successful by the standards of the world.
For some people, like my friend John, cultivating the mind of Christ in community involves gradually maturing downward. For others, it may mean a willingness to serve in positions the world counts as successful. But in either case, the call is to measure ourselves not by worldly stature or success, but by our fidelity to Christ. Easier said than done.
Recommended Citation
Jones, Gregory, "Maturing Downward" (2001). Public Intellectual Writing. 162.
https://repository.belmont.edu/gregoryjones_public/162
