_

_

_

“We glory in Jesus Christ and put no confidence in human efforts…”

 _

“They Also Ran” is the title of a book which tells the stories of  the vice presidents of the United States. The author of this book obviously felt the need to push these members of the support cast onto center stage, at least for a moment.  But that is not where they belong. Those who run in this second position must learn to stand in the wings. 

I served a congregation many years ago in northern Minnesota. One of my members was an unassuming, elderly gentleman named Solon who owned a small business in town. I was always struck by his gentle bearing and unwavering goodwill. I can still see him taking his place on Sunday morning, sitting quietly, head bowed, his hands folded in his lap. It was only years later that I learned of his many accomplishments in business and politics, his wide-spread reputation for integrity, his selfless giving to others. He never spoke of these things.

We were created to be “also rans”, deliberate support cast in the competitions and busyness of life. The spirit of pride always seeks the limelight. The Christian knows that life is lived in the shadow of God’s grace. There is One alone who commands center stage. We may achieve much in this life, by earthly standards, but when seen in the light of God’s greatness and power our greatest accomplishments are pale reflections, at best.

Solon could have stood on the platform of his accomplishments, which were many, in the effort to keep himself in the limelight. In the years I knew him those accomplishments were unknown to me. What he did speak of was the greatness of God, and all God had done to accomplish our salvation through Jesus Christ. 

 “May the peace of God that passes all understanding keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

_

_

_