First, a little music to set the tone for this post, from Bob Dylan’s “Slow Train Comin'” -Gonna have to serve somebody”. This reminds me of Chapter 9, Book 1.
Jesus Christ: Model of Obedience. The Creator of the universe humbled Himself 
to take on the form of a man, bur first as a boy. This boy learned a trade, washed dishes, fed the chickens, etc. His obedience and subjection is a cooperation with an authority even though that authority was not one “superior” to Him: Mary and Joseph. Jesus had to serve somebody.
If we listen more, perhaps we will hear God more. Thomas calls us to an examination of our favorite opinions…our own. He’s counseling us to keep our thoughts to ourselves and perhaps just listen to those God has put over us. You will hear His voice through those people God has placed in our lives.
“Beeing” Humble. Bees will teach you humility quickly. Beekeepers learn this very fast, often sharing stories of our humiliation at the “hands” of these little
creatures. Listening to a seasoned beekeeper is well worth the subjection of our own opinion, even though all of us beekeepers think we know all about bees. For example, a few years back I tried to capture a swarm of bees on my own. I knew how to do it, even had opinions and read about it. But I was scared enough to call my friend Dave for help. And thank goodness I did! Dave had the bees in a box in no time. I learned a lot that day that about “beeing” humble.
As Bob Dylan says, “you’re gonna have to serve somebody.” You might as well bring it to the Lord and find the joy during the service and in the obedience. If we listen to those appointed over us, we may hear the voice of Christ.
Til next time, be Imitators of Christ!
Book 1, Chapter 9: On Obedience and Subjection
1. It is a very great thing to be under obedience (Luke 2:51) to live under a superior and not be at our own disposal. It is much more secure to be in a state of subjection than in authority. Many are under obedience more because they have to be so than for the love of God; and people such as these are in pain and grumble easily. Nor will they gain freedom of mind unless they submit themselves with their whole heart for God’s sake. Running here or there, you will find no rest, but only when you, in an humble subjection, come under the government of a superior. Be careful: Imagining changing places with that authority have deceived many.
2. It is true that everyone desires to act according to his own liking; and is more in favor of his own opinions than of others. But if God is among us, we must sometimes give up our own opinions for the sake of peace. Who is so wise as to be able to know all things? Therefore, do not trust your own thoughts too much, but be willing to hear the sentiments of others. Although your opinion may be good, yet if for God’s sake you leave it to follow that of another and it will be more profitable for you.
3. For I have often heard that it is safer to listen to and take counsel than to give it. It may also happen that each one’s thoughts may be good; but to refuse to yield to others when reason or a just cause requires it, is a sign of your pride and willfulness.