Reading the Word

Philippians 2:5–8 (ESV)

5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Understanding and Applying the Word

Jesus was God in the flesh, but he came to serve. Jesus was the promised Messiah, the King of kings, but he came in humility and gave his life for his people. He did this in order that we could have life. He went to the cross for us.

Jesus calls us to follow his example. Our lives should not be spent looking out for ourselves, but serving others in humility. We should look for the welfare of others and give of ourselves to that end. This is how Christ showed love to us and this is how we show the love of Jesus to the world.

Christmas is a time of year when people are much more giving. As Christians, we should be known for our giving spirit not only at Christmas, but every day. Let us go forth in humility as we follow the example of our Savior and give our lives for others.

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