Philippians 2:5-11
Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of himself. He had equal status with God but didn’t think so much of himself that he had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. Not at all. When the time came, he set aside the privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave, became human! Having become human, he stayed human. It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn’t claim special privileges. Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death—and the worst kind of death at that—a crucifixion. Because of that obedience, God lifted him high and honored him far beyond anyone or anything, ever, so that all created beings in heaven and on earth—even those long ago dead and buried—will bow in worship before this Jesus Christ, and call out in praise that he is the Master of all, to the glorious honor of God the Father. Philippians 2:5-11 (MSG)
The Pastor from Uswaa, Southwood’s sister church in Tanzania, took my hand and guided me down a wooded path, greeting people as we passed their small farms. Occasionally someone would approach and take his other hand. We would pause while they had a quiet conversation and then we would go on. After about 20 minutes we stopped at a small mud hut – Hodi Hodi (hodee) (may I come in?) – he called out. A smiling middle-aged woman pulled back the curtain to the door and we went into a small dark room and sat down. Pastor introduced me and told me that this was her mother’s home, she lived in the hut across the way. The daughter took us into the other room where her mother was lying in bed and as we sat on the bed, Pastor took her mother’s hand. Smiles upon smiles – she was so happy to see us. With Pastor translating we talked a bit about her family, her late husband and what her troubles were. We covered her with a quilt from the Quilters at Southwood, offered a prayer and said goodbye. I’d never been in such a holy place.
Paul deeply loved the people of Philippi (Philippians 1:3-8). He knows that the people of Philippi aren’t perfect. There are things they disagree about. But he believes that they love and are loved by God and that God has begun a great work in them. In this passage, Paul is encouraging them to find what God expected from Jesus and how that is an example for them – and us! It’s called being Christ-like.
Here’s my idea of what that looks like . . .
- Jesus knew that as a human being he was loved by God and that would never be taken from him. We can trust in that truth too.
- Jesus was humble. He came to serve. Serving one another like Christ served involves treating others with honor and respect. Our actions and service should be a reflection of Christ and how he loves.
- He stayed close to God. Jesus prayed – a lot. Nothing is more important to God than a relationship with us. I try to remember that when I think I’m too busy to pray. My favorite is prayer meditation – sit and relax, close your eyes, breathe deeply and listen (falling asleep happens sometimes :) ).
The people of Uswaa, are my best example of being Christ-like.I feel it as soon as I arrive at the airport where we are warmly greeted with hugs, flowers, songs and prayers. Sharing God’s love, putting others needs ahead of their own, songs of praise, prayers are all a natural part of their lives. No one is perfect except Christ, but their lives show me how I can be better.
Questions for Reflection:
- Do you feel loved by God?
- Who is someone you know who is Christ-like?
- What do you think being Christ-like means for you?
Prayer
God the Father, You know us and have always known us since the beginning of time. I am so grateful for the person of Jesus. He helps us to understand how you want us to live. Walk with us as we try to become more like you. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
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