LOSING TO WIN

Shortly after the American Civil War ended, General William Sherman’s victorious army was scheduled to march in a parade. Sherman called General Oliver Howard to his room and said, "General, you ought rightfully to ride at the head of your division in the parade tomorrow. But I’ve been asked to let the general who preceded you in command represent the division." "Yes, you are," said Sherman, "but I believe you are Christian, and I was wondering if Christian considerations might lead you to yield your rights for the sake of peace.’ "In that case," said Howard, "of course I’ll yield." "All right," said General Sherman, "You will be riding with me at the head of the army." General Howard’s willingness to submit to his commander led to the position of greatest honor.

Jesus said, "If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me" (John 12:26). When He was reviled and opposed, He did not insist on His rights but "committed Himself to Him who judges righteously" (1Peter 2:23). That same spirit should characterize His followers. If we as Christians give our lives to serve others for Christ’s sake, we will win His reward. Our "loss" will be our gain.

Though in the world we live each day and feel the power of sin’s dread sway, a hero’s honor God imparts to all who serve with yielded hearts.