The world that Jesus proposed to me two thousand years ago is upside down compared to the standard that I, as a man, have created and imposed upon myself.
In the Matrix I am driven and pressured to become ‘number one’. I use sports, music and even the work place as instruments to exalt myself above others. Virtually every aspect of the Matrix is based on raising the EGO and on a so-called “healthy” competition. Astonishingly Jesus teaches me the contrary: “whoever raises their EGO will be humbled, and whoever will lower their EGO will be exalted.” (see Matthew 23:12)
The religious leaders in the Matrix are called master/father/leader. Jesus teaches me: “do not be called Rabbi for you have only one Master and you are all brothers. Do not call anyone on earth your father, for you have only one Father, the one who is in heaven. Do not call anyone guide or leader, you only have one Guide and Leader, the Christ “(Matt. 23:8-10)
In the Matrix, there are many who call themselves shepherds of souls. But Jesus promises me that there will be one flock and one shepherd. (see John 10:16 second part) In a nutshell, the Matrix is shouting at the top of its lungs: ” Hail the champions! Glory and long life to the rulers!” Instead, Jesus whispers in my ear: “Blessed are you if you feel poor in spirit, if you are humble and meek… if you are pure of heart.” (see Matthew 5:1-11)
Truly these are two worlds in complete contrast… literally upside down. Now I understand why Jesus when speaking of His world, He answered so imperatively, “Whoever is not with me is against me!” (see Matthew 12:30 and Luke 11:23) In fact it is impossible to simultaneously be part of both worlds.
What world am I a part of? What mentality do I portray? What desires do I nurture in my heart? What kind of character do I have?