“At that time the LORD had spoken through Isaiah, Amoz’s son, “Go, take off the mourning clothes from your waist, and remove the shoes from your feet.” And Isaiah did this, walking naked and barefoot.”
— Isaiah 20:2 CEB

I love winning arguments. In high school I was part of a mock trial in which I pretended do be an attorney defending someone accused of armed robbery. The case was made up, but the trial took place in an actual courtroom with a real life judge. And, as it turned out, the emotions that day were also very real.

At a pivotal moment during cross examination I realized one of the witnesses for the prosecution had changed her story a little. I pounced on the opportunity to discredit her testimony. Then, sensing I was gaining favor with the jury, I continued to badger her with my clever questions until the room was raucous with jeers and laughter. Humiliated and no longer in-character, the girl I was interrogating began to cry.

Being right and doing right are not always the same thing. In a world filled with self-appointed prophets who have bullied their way to the top, let us remember that those who are truly embracing the Lord’s mission and message are willing to go the lowly way of Jesus. They would rather be loving and look foolish than be cruel and appear wise.

Dear God, help us set aside our egos and humbly serve your kingdom. Amen.