Self

Carefully I’d preserve my ‘self’
to protect it from life’s pain;
I’d shelter it and shield it some
from all unpleasant strain.

Yet, clearly shown by our dear LORD,
Whose Self was sacrificed
for all (not Israel alone);
self’s ‘death’ is highly priced.

Still, I’d turn ’round most bitterly,
‘stung’ by life’s offences;
reproaching pain – unlike Jesus,
building self defences.

Such love of self could forfeit me,
and pride of self might lose,
the ‘souls’ entrusted to my care:
the path is mine to choose.

Should I, as Jesus did, forsake
and even low despise
all my ‘rights’ and privileges –
make God my only prize?

Shall I meekly accept disdain,
forgive an injury;
look only to my Saviour
when treated cruelly?

When self is no more our best friend;
when others mean much more,
and though they might reject our love,
we’ll walk through Heaven’s door.