At present, we see only puzzling reflections in a mirror, but one day we shall see face to face. My knowledge now is partial; then it will be whole, like God’s knowledge of me.
(1 Corinthians 13:12, REB)
Lent is a time of self-examination which is very important. Even Socrates said, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” I personally find it difficult to see myself clearly. Paul taught in Romans “I say to everyone among you: do not think too highly of yourself, but form a sober estimate based on the measure of faith that God has dealt to each of you.” (12:3)
Many of us probably are intoxicated with our own opinions of ourselves, while others may be more sober in their self-evaluations.
Even though Paul gave this advice in Romans, he admitted in 1 Corinthians that he struggled to see himself clearly, to see himself as God sees him. How do we measure or judge ourselves? He tells us in the next verse. “There are three things that last forever: faith, hope, and love; and the greatest of the three is love.”
As we examine ourselves, love is the measure that we use. Love in the biblical sense is other-centered, self-sacrificing, and action-oriented (not based on feelings). The Spirit fills us with this love for God and one another—and even for ourselves.
Dr. Sam