Ironically, our birth into the Christian faith begins with death.

But this death has no solemn funeral. It is a joyful parting, a set of wings. When we die to ourselves, we resurrect, free.

Our obsession with Self begins at birth. It is a wearisome addiction. Self is a dictator. It demands to speak first. It wants its own way. There is no joy for others’ blessings. Obsessed with appearance, it compromises finances for vanity. It seeks comfort at the expense of others, ruining friendships, marriages, and lives.

But, when Self dies, oh what a freedom Christ gives!

Putting Him first, we come alive. Putting aside Self gives us meaning and provides us with a lifelong purpose. We were created to praise God and care for others.

If Self isn’t in the way, we can see the holes around us that we were meant to fill. Our new freedom gives us courage. It gives us compassion. It gives us a healthy sense of who we are and who God is making us to be.

Death of Self and rebirth in Christ brings us this abundant life, full of all the things worth pursuing, worth having, worth living for. It readies us for life with God in glory.