The Hard Part
"Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death—even death on a cross." (Philippians 2:5-8)
Philippians 2:5-8 is another one of those passages I don't like very much. I'm not fond of "emptying" myself. Having "the same mind" as "Christ Jesus" sounds good, but it is messy. If I have the same mind as Christ, I need to sacrifice for the poor and disenfranchised. I need to focus on others more than myself and be ready to sacrifice any material need to help others.
What does God expect? I am not worthy of God's care. Sadly, I have a hard time thinking that I would be willing to die on a cross. Especially for people who were treating me as disrespectfully as Jesus was treated. Yet, just as Jesus gave all of himself for others, we are to be of "the same mind." How am I to remain faithful and have this sacrificial frame of mind? This part of the Bible is not my favorite. It's not my favorite because I find its call too demanding.
Today, I will pray for courage, commitment, and humility to be more willing to focus on others. I will ask God to bless me with the wisdom to give in ways that make a difference in the world. I pray you will add your voice to mine, and together, we will seek the Spirit's guidance as we face God's challenge.
This Devotion was originally written in September of 2017.