Our scripture this morning is Philippians 2:3-11.
“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross. Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
Paul recounts Christ coming to save us and reminds us that we are called to love others as He did and continue His ministry. Jesus was completely obedient to God’s will and His plan for us, and taught us how to help others come to know Him. Through our repentance and continued faithfulness we are blessed to live with Him eternally.
It is an amazing thing to be part of what God is doing in creation! He made us for relationship with Him and wants all His children to return to that original connection. Because of our disobedience we have strayed from Him but through Christ’s sacrifice we can be restored. He was willing to suffer on our behalf to bring us back to the Father.
What are we willing to endure for His sake? We must admit our sin, ask forgiveness and be made one with Him, and then go in His name to share the Gospel. While we may not be called to give up our lives for others as Jesus did, He calls us to a new life in Him.
Loving Lord, in Your mercy You sent Jesus to save us and lead us back to You. Bless us to go to spread Your love throughout the world. Amen.