Philippians 2:5-11
After a long weekend learning about officiating at the highest levels of football, I’m finally taking the time to write this devotion that is long past due. As I read the passage for today, the servant leadership of Christ calls to me.
Officials are judged constantly. Our actions on and off the field are under a microscope. This passage reminds me of something I heard at a camp. “You know the character of someone (an official) based on how they treat someone who can seemingly do nothing for them.” In this context, the speaker was talking about how we treat the hotel staff, cleaning persons, bartenders, and others. No one wants to be around those that belittle others or use their positions of power (even as a customer) to dominate others. That’s what people who feel superior do. How do you act when you have a position above others?
In this passage, we’re reminded that Christ, while holding a position above all humanity, chose to serve humanity all the way to the cross. What a gift! None of us can earn or deserve that sacrifice, but He gave Himself anyway. He loved us so much that He used his position not to impose his will or demand subservience, but to save us all! Oh, that I, you, or our leaders could see and live by this greatest example as we are called to do in this passage.
Too often, we get stuck on what others can do for us. When we shift our focus to a servant heart, you can find that you get back so much more than you would ever expect. This only happens if/when we give without the expectation of reciprocation. That is just a transaction. True giving requires nothing in return. Let us all strive to give like Christ did, regardless of our title.
Questions for Reflection:
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Where could you use your position of authority to serve instead of imposing?
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What areas of your life do you find yourself giving without expecting something back?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us Your Son, Jesus. Let us live by his example of servant leadership. Help us to remember that while He is a king, he chose to wash the feet of his friends. That is too often forgotten in our world. Help us to light the world with Your presence and service. Amen.
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