Yesterday was Good Friday—a day that calls us, more than ever, to reflect on the life and example of Jesus Christ. On this sacred occasion, we are drawn again into the heart of one of the most transformative virtues ever revealed to humanity: humility. As we meditate on Christ’s suffering, His silence in the face of injustice, and ultimately His death on the cross, we are reminded that Good Friday is far more than a religious observance. It is a divine summons to examine our own character, our attitudes, and the way we live and lead in the world.
The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, exhorts us in Philippians 2:5: “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.” What was this mind? It was not driven by ambition, status, or entitlement. Rather, it was shaped by surrender, selflessness, and profound humility. Though Christ was, by nature, divine, He did not cling to His heavenly privilege. Instead, He emptied Himself, took on the form of a servant, and embraced obedience—even to the point of death on a cross. He did not raise an army, nor did He seek revenge. He laid down His life in love, for the sake of others.
This is the humility we are called to imitate—not a timid or superficial humility, but a bold, conscious, and powerful decision to place others before ourselves; to listen more than we speak; and to give more than we receive. Humility is the virtue that dismantles the strongholds of ego, pride, and division. It is the quiet force that heals wounds, unites hearts, and elevates the human spirit.
In today’s world—where image, power, and personal gain are often pursued at all costs—humility may seem outdated or weak. Yet, it is precisely this virtue that marks true maturity. It does not depend on education, wealth, religion, or nationality. Humility is not a virtue reserved for the elite or enlightened; it is a quality that every human being, regardless of background or status, must actively cultivate.
As a nation with a deep spiritual foundation, Ethiopia has a unique opportunity to lead through humility. Imagine a country where leaders govern with integrity, where families live in gentleness and love, and where communities rise above selfishness and conflict. This vision does not begin with loud declarations or grand changes, but with quiet hearts making humble choices—one step at a time.
Let humility be the lens through which we see power—not as a right to dominate, but as a duty to serve and uplift. Let it be the bedrock of our relationships, shaping how we treat one another with dignity and kindness. Let humility guide our politics, our business practices, our education systems, and our religious expressions.
As we contemplate the cross, and the love that kept Christ there, may we find the strength to let go of pride and embrace the path of humility. Let us not merely admire His sacrifice, but walk in His footsteps. May we become a generation known not for arrogance, but for grace; not for division, but for unity.
Let us then, with one heart and one voice, respond to this sacred calling: to walk humbly with our God—and with one another. In doing so, we will help shape a world not marked by problems and conflict, but by peace, understanding, and shared joy.
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 19 APRIL 2025
