In your relationships with
one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
Philippians 2:5
In America it is a common practice to place doormats by our front doors. Some are strictly for function—plain, dull, and abrasive rectangles for wiping shoes. Some have dual purposes—a mat to help avoid tracking dirt inside, as well as being decoratively shaped with colorful and varied designs. Doormats may be personalized with a monogram or last name. Often they are imprinted with a word or phrase, including the traditional, “Welcome.” Here are a few witty expressions:
“We Can’t Both Look Good, it’s Either Me or the
House!”
“Big Dog Inside”
“The Cat and Its Housekeeping Staff Reside Here”
“Wipe Your Paws”
“Hi, I’m Mat!”
I’ve had a doormat at the door to my heart embossed
with the word, “Shame.” It’s not an invitation, but the message is clear, “You
can walk all over me.” I’ve been called a doormat. Ouch. The term doormat refers
to one who lacks boundaries in relationships and has a difficult time saying, “no”
to others. The person who acts as a doormat doesn’t believe they have a choice,
but instead reacts as a helpless victim of others’ words and actions. (I am not
referring to real victims of crime or abuse.)
Young Joseph, of the Old Testament, was sold into
slavery by his brothers, thrown into prison from false accusations, and more.
What about Jesus? Read Philippians 2:1-8. He didn’t defend Himself from the
unjust punishment he endured before and on the cross. Were they ‘doormats’?
Absolutely not! Each chose to humbly yield to God.
Humility isn’t weakness. Humility is meekness. Meekness is strength and power
under control for the good of another.
No one is a doormat who is in Christ. Our new
identity is in Him, not in the way we may feel. Let’s live as new creations. A
butterfly can’t go back to being a caterpillar!
What message is on the doormat to your heart?
Jesus, may
“Come In” be clearly read when we’ve swept off the doormats to our hearts where
You reside.
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