Our scripture this morning is Philippians 2:5-8 (NRSV).
Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, assuming human likeness. And being found in appearance as a human, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death— even death on a cross.
Think like Jesus? That sounds hard, but Paul tells us that if we want a relationship with Jesus, we must be of the same mind. If we want to be like Jesus, we have to want what He wants for us as individuals and the world.
This was the original problem that led to our fall into sin. We had a relationship with God, but we were not of the same mind. Humans chose to follow our own minds on the advice of one who did not have our best interests at heart. This lack of trust and disobedience broke the relationship with God for which we were created.
However, God didn’t give up on us. While things were different than at first, God still loved and wanted the best for us. He already knew we would need help, and in the time He determined, Jesus came to show us what we needed to be saved. Now we get to pass that blessing on to others, inviting them to know the love of God.
Loving Lord, we are grateful You still reach out to us with mercy and forgiveness. Bless us to be good stewards of all Your gifts and share the Gospel with the world. Amen.
