Lessons Learned From the Least Entitled Person to Ever Walk the Planet
I’ve reached a point in life where I think I am deserving of certain rights and privileges. Whether it’s because of my age, season of life, or ministry experience, at times I think I’m above certain things. I shouldn’t have to take out the trash. Replace the paper towels or soap in the bathroom? Mop the coffee spill off the floor? Someone else should do the jobs I’m doing. ‘This task I’m doing is way below my pay grade.’
You might say I struggle with entitlement.
What does it mean to be entitled? A quick search on Google reveals to us that to be entitled means that you believe you are inherently deserving of privileges or special treatment.
I deserve a close parking spot when I go shopping.
I deserve short lines at Starbucks.
I should be able to get the seat I want at church.
It’s my right to have perfectly obedient children.
My spouse should have sex with me whenever I want it.
I deserve _______________________ (fill-in the blank).
What do you find yourself entitled to?
As I write this post, it’s Maundy Thursday of Holy Week, less than two hours away from Good Friday. As many of you might be doing, I’m reading the Bible passages that go along with each day of Holy Week. On Palm Sunday I read Mark 11:1-11, which includes the story of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey. I’ve never ridden a donkey before but I’m guessing it’s not the most comfortable ride in Jerusalem. It’s certainly not the most regal or powerful animal on the planet.
Mark 11:7 says, “When they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, he sat on it.” The perfect Son of God entered into Jerusalem riding on a donkey (Mark 11:11). The One who is entitled to whatever He wants, whenever He wants it, willingly chose to enter into Jerusalem riding a donkey.
If anyone deserves the best and most powerful, it’s Jesus. His resume? Perfect Son of God. Never sinned. Always obedient. Fully righteous, pure, holy, and good. The true G.O.A.T. Forget MJ or LeBron. Jesus is the true GOAT. Always has been. Always will be.
On Sunday morning as I read Mark 11:1-11, I was reminded once again of how entitled I really am. As I read about Jesus, riding into Jerusalem on a donkey, I’m reminded once again of what I really deserve (eternal separation from God). And I’m reminded of how you and I benefit from the fact that Jesus, while deserving of everything, gave it all up for you and for me (See Philippians 2:6-8).
What do you find yourself entitled to? As mentioned above, for me it’s a comfortable life, free of “menial” tasks. It’s so prideful as I reflect upon my areas of entitlement. I hope I never think I’m too good for any task or opportunity to serve.
On this Good Friday, or whenever you read this post, take a moment to reflect upon areas where you think you deserve something. I’m so thankful the Lord reminded me of my entitlement as I read about Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey.
My friend, boss, and pastor, JP often says, “We cannot feel grateful for anything we feel entitled to.” One of the best solutions to entitlement is gratitude. I start each day by writing down a few things I’m thankful for. I’ve been doing this for years and most of the time I find it to be a beneficial exercise to help me take my mind off what I think I deserve and switch it to being grateful for what I’ve been undeservedly given. Ask the Lord to help you be grateful for what He’s already given you instead of dwelling upon what you think you deserve.
A few recommended resources to help you dive in deeper:
Harris Creek Sermon from Jonathan “JP” Pokluda - Entitlement, from 7 Deadly Sins of Suburbia
Read this Instagram post (also from JP)
Lead to Win Podcast Episode - The Rules Don’t Apply to Me.
Your Turn:
What do you think you’re entitled to?
How do you deal with your entitlement struggles? Anything you can share to help others?