Passage: Philippians 2:1-11
Points
1. We are called to be like-minded, have the same love, be one in spirit and purpose.
2. We should have the attitude of Christ and do nothing out of selfish ambition, but be humble and consider others.
3. Jesus is the greatest example of humility. Being in the form of God, Jesus gave it up and took on the nature of a servant and became obedient to death, even death on the cross.
Personalize
Jesus chose to humble himself. Humility is an act of the will. It is the decision to consider, not only our own interest, but the interest of others. Jesus chose to leave His rightful place in heaven to become human and to suffer death, even death on the cross. In His act of humility Jesus recognized with the suffering of humanity and as the Message bible states: The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood. (John 1:14) What other way is there to identify with the condition and suffering of others, than to move into their neighborhood, where they live out their daily lives?
While in Birmingham, AL, our church ministered to a community in the downtown area. It was no different than any other inner city area. There was an enormous amount of crime, drugs, alcohol, and family abuses. We would travel to one of the multi-family housing communities and provide a variety of services. These ministries included children events, block parties, community cookouts, and Christmas giving. It was always a joy to be in their neighborhood. Yet I always understood we are there on a temporary basis and we would be going back to our suburb neighborhood, safe from the drugs and violence.
This reality was true for most of us, except one of our church families. Philip and Sheila purchased a home in the community, began teaching at a local Christian school and even adopted one of the children we were serving. They chose to humble themselves and consider the community more important their own family’s comfort and security. They moved into the neighborhood and truly understood the conditions the families were facing on a daily basis. The last time I heard, Philip and Sheila had moved to Bangkok and once again moved into another world to make Christ known.
Look around, what group of people, neighborhood, city, or country is God calling you? Will you choose to humble yourself and take up your cross and belongings and move? Move to a place needing the presence of Christ. Move into the life of others and make Christ known. Humility is a choice. Will you choose to “not only consider your own interest, but the interest of others.” Look to Christ, He has provided us the example.
Prayer
Lord, may you reveal those you are calling us to reach. We look around and see individuals in our offices, neighborhoods, and communities who need an encounter with you. May we create encounter opportunities as we humble ourselves and consider the need of others. Lord create in us the love for others as Christ has revealed. When we look over our shoulder in a week, month, or years; may we see the lives you have impacted by our choice to humble ourselves and to consider their needs as well.
