I’ve known narcissists in my life so it is easy for me to recognize the signs. They create a general state of disorder, spreading drama that they love to start. And then they take command as “savior” to solve the issue they just created. They engage in behaviors to satisfy their need to feel superior and a desire to stand out among others, or even better, to occupy a position above them. Every problem is a “huge” problem that is only solved with lots of drama and only fixed by them.
Our culture seems to thrive on insincere interactions and man-made problems that only a few can solve.
During my prayer time, I’ve been contrasting this picture with what I see in Jesus.
Throughout the Gospels, Jesus calmly goes about preaching, teaching and healing. No mega-million rallies, or fierce chants directed against others. In many cases He even told those healed to not tell anyone. How’s that for humility!
I see that Jesus’ reaction to chaos or discontent was typically to go off to a quiet spot and pray. I’m sure he was praying for others and not himself. I picture Him in the garden or the desert calmly contemplating His divinity and His humanity.
This year I’ve made it a part of my focus to learn from Jesus and be the one who calms the chaos not the one who creates it. It’s hard to read the news or listen to the radio without getting worked up about the latest tragedy to despair over. There are plenty of injustices that deserve our attention, but they don’t need to be magnified by the narcissists in the world.
I pray that you will find the serenity that Jesus models for us as he quietly goes about what God has asked Him to do.
Blessings and Peace,
Agatha