Centre of Gravity

Centre of Gravity and Stability

Centre of gravity is a point of an object where its whole weight seems to act. It is largely tied with the stability of an object. If the centre of gravity acts within the base of the object, it returns to its original position. If it falls outside the base, the object topples over.

The Centre of Gravity of a Roly-poly

Consider a roly-poly toy. No matter how hard you push it, though it wobbles a lot as if it would fall over, it comes right back up in the end—it is almost impossible to topple it. Why is that? It is because its centre of gravity is right at the bottom.

You might think, “how can we make the roly-poly fall?” The only way is to attach an object to its head. This raises its centre of gravity, making it more susceptible to fall.

Then, where should our “centre of gravity” be?

Romans 12:16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position …

The Bible tells us not to be proud; in other words, to be humble. Whatever position we are in, our centre of gravity should be at the bottom. Then, we will never fall no matter what temptations or trials may come our way.

On the other hand, what happens when our centre of gravity rises? The more one’s pride rises up, the more the person is in danger of falling. For us to safely arrive at our destination, the kingdom of heaven, we should always have our centre of gravity at the bottom—lowering ourselves instead of lifting ourselves up. Therefore, God teaches us not to be proud but to be humble by setting us the perfect example.

Jesus Christ, the Perfect Example of Humility

Jesus, who is the Most High God, did the humblest work that servants did, as the lowest one. In ancient Israel, there was a custom where servants washed the feet of visitors. However, right before keeping the New Covenant Passover, Jesus washed Peter’s feet (John 13:1-17).

Philippians 2:5-8 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God … He made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant … He humbled himself by becoming obedient to death …

Although Jesus is God Himself, He set the example of humbling Himself before us as the way for us to be saved. We should realise His will and follow in His humble path.