Luke 1:38 - A Christmas Sacrifice of Reputation

We do a lot to protect our reputation, don't we? When we meet someone new, we try to put our best foot forward. When we apply for a job, our resume lists all our strengths and successes--not our flaws and failures. When we come to the end of life, we hope that someone writes a flattering obituary for us, full of fond memories and how we were treasured by family and friends.

Our reputation is one reason we are concerned about "identity theft." It's not just that someone could use our credit cards and bank account; someone may tarnish our reputation. It's also why people sue for "defamation of character" -- libel or slander. 

Now if someone is being pompous, putting on airs, and acting as if they are better than they are, we consider them a hypocrite. Their reputation is built on false representation.

But who, in their right mind, would be willing to sacrifice their good reputation?

Consider the sacrifice Mary made for the first Christmas; she was willing to sacrifice her reputation. The angel told this young virgin that she would be carrying "the Son of the Most High" for nine months. 

Knowing that when she began to show, people would talk and assume she'd been "messing around," she still responded:

“I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.”
Luke 1:38 (New Living Translation) 

Sometimes God asks us to do things that others will consider virtuous or praiseworthy. But what if doing God's will might "damage" our reputation? Are we willing to sacrifice reputation for the sake of obeying God? Is His approval worth more than anyone else's? (John 12:43; Galatians 1:10)

Lord in heaven,
Sacrificing my reputation isn't a gift I can wrap up with a pretty bow. But it's tough... I've worked hard to not just look good, but to be good.  Regardless, don't let me do anything that would drag Your name in the mud. (Psalm 69:6) Give me the humility to let You worry about my reputation. That's in Your hands.
In the name of Your Son, Amen.