Virtues

One thing that upset Jesus was how the religious leaders of his time sought honors and respect, both of which are connected to having power over people. Jesus preached seeking humility, not honors and self-aggrandizement.

What are the gospel values and virtues we should be seeking to grow in and practice? I think it comes down to the distinction between what are called resumé virtues vs. eulogy virtues. Resumé virtues would include the individual’s accomplishments in life: education credentials, wealth accumulated, business accomplishments, and accolades, public honors, and so forth.

Eulogy virtues are the qualities we most hear mentioned when eulogizing a person, as we do at funerals. Although business accomplishments can certainly make their way into a eulogy, the main focus tends to be on the impact the deceased made in the lives of others–so a lot of talk about family and friends, perhaps colleagues, the good deeds, generosity, and good qualities the individual lived by.

Why do we talk about these things in a eulogy? Because deep down we know that when it comes to a final reflection on who a person was, they are the attributes that affect people the most and that say the most about the individual. These are the values that last and get passed on through the lives of loved ones and point out to us what our own priorities should be. These are the values Jesus preached and lived.

“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” (Matthew 23:12)