Narcissism sounds like a harsh word; one we hardly ever connect to ourselves. Zachary Malito defined narcissism as “the act of being self-absorbed, with a desire for self-promotion, greatness, and significance.” When we look at narcissism for what it truly is, we realize that we, too, may possess it.

In Luke 17, Jesus talks about how His followers should be prepared for the coming kingdom. In verse 33, He addresses where our focus should be.

Those who desire to “preserve their life” are those who are consumed by the idea of what their earthly life should look like. But those who are willing to “lose their life” are those who put Jesus first, ahead of everything in their lives, including themselves.

• Why do you think that Jesus says those who want to keep their life will lose it?
• Would you consider yourself a narcissist (based on the definition above)? Why or why not?