Philippians 2:5-8 – “In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very natureGod, did not consider equality with Godsomething to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very natureof a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”

Jesus was willing to do “whatever it takes” to bring his message to us in our language. He embodied the message with his being made in human likeness and living amongst us, his dying on the cross in front of us and on our behalf, and his being raised to life and being seen and touched by us.

Even though being equal with God, he displayed a mindset precisely opposite of “selfish ambition” and empty glory. Jesus’ selflessness for the sake of others expressed itself by taking the nature of a servant; Jesus entered our history not as Lord (a name he acquires at his vindication, vv. 9-11), but as servant/slave, a person without advantages, rights or privileges, but in servanthood to all. Jesus not only reveals the character of God, but also reveals what it means for us to be created in God’s image, to bear his likeness and to have his “mindset.” It means taking the role of a servant for the sake of others (Gordon Fee, Philippians, IVPNTC).

Today let’s praise and thank Jesus for his love and faithfulness. Let’s pray for ourselves and our churches for more of the Spirit’s transforming and empowering in us to be willing to do “whatever it takes” for us to “be there” with others: having Jesus’ mindset in speaking the same language with those God has led us to/placed us with.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJlMUzr92cs

-AP