The greatest philosopher that ever lived goes by the name “Anonymous.” Consider a few of Anonymous’ greatest hits:
- I have often regretted my speech, never my silence.
- A man is known by the company he avoids.
- Bad habits are like a comfortable bed, easy to get into, but hard to get out of.
- Going to church doesn’t make you a Christian any more than standing in a garage makes you a car.
- God does not ask about our ability, but our availability.
Obviously some of Anonymous’ quotes are entertaining while others are enlightening. But there is one habit of this philosopher all should admire and imitate—he doesn’t care whether he gets the credit for his work.
The desire to remain anonymous is a lost art. The culture of today seeks credit for everything. Children are raised to seek approval and credit for every act. A child throws away a piece of trash and announces it to his parents for applause. Adults help out a friend in need and then feel compelled to post it to Facebook for the world to see. Simply put, people want credit and recognition for every good deed they do.
This desire to be recognized is contrary to God’s teaching. Jesus said, “…when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do…But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing so that your giving may be in secret…” (Matt. 6:2–4). When we give, it should be a private matter—not something we announce to the world. Paul described his preaching this way: “…I, when I came to you, brothers, did not come proclaiming to you the testimony of God with lofty speech or wisdom…that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God” (1 Cor. 2:1–5). It appears Paul purposely presented the gospel in such a way that he would avoid gaining recognition and credit for his own abilities. It appears that God never intended for our faithful service to be a point of recognition.
Jesus describes us as the salt of the earth in the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5:13). The typical application of Jesus’ illustration is that Christians today must maintain their zesty flavor. There is another quality of salt that should be noticed—salt loses itself in its work. Salt sprinkled onto a meat or vegetable quickly disappears. The flavoring remains but the visible evidence of salt is gone. As salt of the earth, Christ’s disciples must maintain their flavor without being seen. There is a need to be lost in the work.
Learn to get lost in the work. That doesn’t mean when others notice you must refuse compliments. It simply means all things should be done without seeking recognition. The greatest quotes and acts of kindness this world has ever seen have always been accomplished by man known simply as “Anonymous.”
1 Comment
September 8, 2009 at 2:41 pm
Great reminder. Thanks