Chotard Doll

Dear Friends in Christ:

Humility. Not a popular attitude in our culture. And yet the Bible advocates humility in its old fashioned definition, namely turning one’s face toward God, not self.

In the lectionary today King Belshazzar sets himself up above God, impressed by his own importance. He was not humble before God.

Peter thought he knew all about fishing and was doubtful about casting the net as Jesus requested. But he recognized his inadequacy before God and humbled himself before Jesus, declaring, I am a sinner.

So humility is a profound aspect of our relationship with God. As Micah reminds us, What does the Lord require of you? To do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God.

That could be a description of Zita, 13th Century maid of Tuscany, worker of charity, remembered today. Born into a devout but poor family, she was sent into service for a wealthy family at the age of 12, and served them for some 50 years. At first her piety and cheerfulness brought ridicule from the kitchen staff, who abused her lowly position. But eventually her humble and loving attitude won their affection and that of the family.  She became known for her diligence in doing ordinary things extraordinarily well, and became known as the patron saint of maids and domestic workers.

Therein lies the example for us all in humbling ourselves before God, and carrying out the tasks of our lives. As the Collect reminds us: Merciful God, who has given to us all things necessary for life and godliness: Grant that we, like your servant Zita ,may be faithful in the exercise of our duties, and that, whatever you give us to do, we may do it heartily to you for the honor and glory of your Name; through him who has called us to virtue. Amen. Amen.

Faithfully,

—Chotard