The Bible tells us in Philippians that we should always think more highly of others than ourselves. I received the opportunity to experience this the weekend of the fall festival. I was going to play some of my music, inside my tent, in hopes to minister to those passing by. I took my guitar and equipment and when I arrived, I was informed by the musician beside me that he would be playing his instrument the full three days but, would be willing to let me play a song or two while he took a break. I have to say the temptation to be angry was fighting to get out of me, but I had a choice.
In John 3:16, God’s word tells us that God so loved the world that He gave us Jesus, His only son, to bring salvation to all who would believe in Him. God did not have to give us this gift. He chose because of His love for all mankind. When Jesus went to the cross, He laid down His life. He thought of us more than the brutal experience of the beating and humiliation He would suffer to accomplish His perfect and unselfish gift of redemption. He asks us, as believers, to do the same. We are to lay down our lives for others as Christ did for us. Sometimes, we are to step aside for others and be an example amid our disappointment.
I was happy to hear the beautiful music that resonated from the gentleman’s speakers beside me. The music was angelic. The musician was a professional dulcimer player who had traveled the world. We are more blessed from the Lord when we make the choice to think of others ahead of ourselves. We quickly learn the gift that we can give by putting someone else first. Let us all remember God’s unselfish gift as we remember others this holiday season.
