We arrived at the AIM headquarters to kick off man hike, 3 days before training camp, and 12 hours after leaving home. While waiting for the rest of the group, we played a bit of euchre, shared in small talk, and started to settle down. Little did we know or expected but our worlds’ were about to be rocked. For some guys it was “the reaping”; the unexpected transfer of guys between squads. For others it was the 18 mile hike ahead, with 3,500 ft of elevation change. But for me, it was a challenge issued by Bill Swan (AIM director of Field Leadership). It changed the way I looked at the days to come, and I have a hunch it’s not just for me.
Bill looked at us, a semi-circle of guys, and said,
“How about, for the next few days, nobody has to prove themselves to anyone.”
My pride quaked inside me. What do you mean? I was (at best, subconsciously) eyeing up these next few days and all the loads of potential validation in store.
The truth behind showing off, hasty judgment glances and one upping each other’s stories is all the same—Insecurity.
Seeking security and value in others is ingrained in our culture but it’s selfish and ultimately unsatisfying. There’s a real beauty in resting in the truth that you, yes you, are valued by the Lord of Creation. You are valued by the One whose value is the most important. He says you and I are worthy and He showed it by sacrificing His son. Your value is a gift, you didn’t earn it, and nothing you do can ever remove it. He wants to be our security, our stronghold. Take a moment and soak in this truth.
If you can surrender up the desire to earn your worth here’s what can happen:
- Suddenly there’s time to discover the value in those around you. Consequently, you become part of a valuable community.
- Empathy happens. I’ve struggled with this, because when you’re so focused on how things will make you look/feel you don’t consider how they make others look/feel.
- Your community becomes healthier, because encouragement, affirmation and feedback happen without being the cornerstone of everyone’s identity.
Everyone wants to be valued: from hostage-takers to the people you’ve just met. Now the challenge is yours.
How about, for the next few days, you surrender the desire to prove yourselves to anyone.
God loves you and values you. Let’s see what happens.
