Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:5
“Learn in Christ how possible it is to be strong and mild, to blend in fullest harmony the perfection of all that is noble, lofty, generous in the soldier’s ardor of heroic devotion; and of all that is calm, still, compassionate, tender in the priest’s waiting before God and mediation among men.”
Alexander Maclaren in Dictionary of Burning Words of Brilliant Writers, compiled by Josiah Hotchkiss Gilbert (New York: Wilbur B. Ketcham, 1895) 412. I snapped the header photo in my office. It’s where I have basically lived for the last month. You can see I love books to learn in Christ, and my chair and map (at right) is my place of prayer for the world.
In life after Easter, in light of the resurrection, I am returning to my word for the year, which is compassion. May Christ teach us how to be the mix of these amazing traits: strong and mild, lofty and calm, generous and compassionate, noble and tender. Clearly, it’s only possible by knowing and abiding in Him. Teach us, Christ Jesus.