May 5, 2008 - Family Pride

My brother is a paramedic in South Texas. Last year, he found himself on a solo call in which he saved two lives and prevented a catastrophic house fire. For his efforts, he was selected as the paramedic of the year for the state of Texas. This week, he joins 49 other state honorees in Washington, D.C. for special ceremonies including a trip to the White House to meet the President. My mother and I are flying to Washington to attend the banquet and public recognition of the 50 winners, including my brother. 

Over the years, our family has had its struggles. We have had some tense moments and broken relationships. But, like most families, we rally when trouble comes and celebrate each other’s successes. Part of helping our children to adulthood was teaching them to celebrate their siblings’ successes, rather than allowing sibling rivalry to hamper their relationships. 

Celebrating successes of others is a spiritual discipline. It requires humility, putting others ahead of ourselves, and allowing honor to flow to others. Families are strengthened when they do this. So are churches and ministry organizations. One of my saddest observations is jealousy among ministry leaders. When a church or organization or leader is successful – by any measure – he or she is often criticized rather than celebrated by their peers. This is disgraceful and reveals spiritual immaturity. A true mark of maturity is the ability to celebrate what others do, to give honor, and not succumb to the temptation to diminish others to make ourselves feel more secure or successful. 

Later this week, we will have “Honors Chapel” at Golden Gate. We will recognize students for outstanding achievement in various areas – from biblical studies to demonstrated leadership initiative to perseverance through uniquely challenging circumstances to complete their seminary training. Some might question “praising men” as part of a seminary program. We view it as “honoring one another” and enjoy the privilege of singling out some students for the special encouragement that comes from peers and professors saying, “Job well done.” 

Giving honor is a privilege and a responsibility in the Christian community. Receiving honor, and giving God the glory, is the spiritual responsibility of the recipient. So, when you have the opportunity to honor someone – do it. Celebrating the success of others is a much better response than petty jealousy or false humility that prohibits you being a blessing to others!


Questions or comments? Please email those to jeffiorg@ggbts.edu

Visit the archive for past blogs