“A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches.” ~Proverbs 22:1
It would appear from this verse that we are to protect our name and our reputation at all costs. But Jesus didn’t. Even before He was born, He was looked down upon, as Mary became pregnant before she and Joseph were married. The lies and slander only continued, even until his death. “He saved others; he cannot save himself” (Matthew 27:42).
Jesus came into the world as a humble Savior, not at all concerned with what others thought of Him. “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). Jesus hung out with sinners. “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance” (Luke 5:31-32). “Jesus sacrificed his good name to sit with sinners and save them” (John Piper).
So often I feel that I am concerned with my name and my reputation. Even last night I dreamed that a couple of the college kids were acting up in church, and I actually thought to myself that they were going to put a bad name on the college kids, which would in turn put a bad name on ME. It was only a dream, but it has still shown me my selfishness in wanting myself to look good. I pray that the LORD would break me and humble me in this area of my life.
~my thoughts after reading a chapter in Seeing and Savoring Jesus Christ by John Piper