Our Perfect Model

It was a massive composition that stretched musical boundaries. The results were so unexpected that some listeners were confused and critical. But others were amazed and overwhelmed.

By writing his A Hero’s Life in 1898, Richard Strauss created a massive musical tribute to the idea of the hero. Employing a huge orchestra, his composition was big and grand. In keeping with the subject, the sound was heroic, all designed to use the symbolism of sound to describe a hero’s moments of victory and tranquility at home. His achievements and response to his admirers.

What made this all the more memorable was that Strauss had written about himself as the “hero.” (In fact, he had written several other compositions with autobiographical elements.) But not everyone appreciated or understood his motives. At the work’s premiere, one critic had called this “a monstrous act of egotism.”

Strauss was not the first to focus on himself, or think of himself in such glowing terms. In fact, history is filled with examples of men and women who have thought primarily about themselves. Who have been driven to gain wealth and power.

But Believers are reminded that God hates pride. That being self-centered is a byproduct of the flesh. That “those who are still under the control of their sinful nature can never please God” (Romans 8:8, 13).

We have a Savior who was completely different. He “gave up his divine privileges” and became human. He is “gentle and humble,” and He offers a refuge of rest for all who come to Him (Matthew 11:29).

Make sure that Jesus is your model. Like Him, seek to be a humble servant. And seek to serve God with your life, always giving Him all the glory.