“Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death– even death on a cross!” Philippians 2:5-8 (NIV)
It is interesting how many Christians read about Jesus and then misinterpret his actions. He fed 5000+ and said that his disciples would do greater things, so we want to feed ten or a hundred thousand thinking that fulfills what he said. Over the last two millennia, Christians have sought to emulate his behavior and actions in diverse manners. Some have pursued asceticism, thinking that physical restriction of the flesh made them more Christ-like. They failed to note that Jesus was criticized as a “winebibber and a glutton.” In modern times, people have worn robes, sandals, beards, and let their hair grow long, thinking that such manner of dress would identify them with Christ. They fail to note that God judges by internal criteria not by external appearances. Some people emphasize ‘love and tolerance,’ thinking that a universal gospel makes them more Christ-like. They fail to note that Jesus said, “except you repent you shall all likewise perish.” Some people claim Jesus rode on a new donkey so that entitles them to drive a new luxury automobile. They fail to note that he left the splendor of his luxurious existence in order to redeem a lost and dying humanity. Some believe that because they are so-called “king’s kids” they are entitled to “health and wealth.” But they fail to consider those men and women of faith who, despite their faith and mighty works, were destitute, afflicted, and tormented “of whom,” God said, “the world was not worthy” (Hebrews 11: 38).
It isn’t about the miracles we perform, the faith we possess, how we dress, or the amount of our assets. So then what is it about? It is about his attitude and ours. His is the example for us to emulate. Read today’s passage again. He did not demand his rights and status. He emptied himself of royal glory and filled himself with servanthood. He identified himself with those he came to save. He humbled himself. He obeyed God’s will, even to the humiliating curse of the Cross. This is what it is about. Any other attitude needs adjusting.
Dear Father, thank you for your grace and mercy. Forgive us our arrogant, self-serving attitudes. Grant to us the spiritual fortitude to adjust our attitude. This I humbly pray in Jesus’ name. AMEN
Let us thank God for the gift of his Son, Jesus Christ, and live to his glory,