Listen

Adopt the attitude that was in Christ Jesus:

Though he was in the form of God, he did not consider being equal with God something to exploit. But he emptied himself by taking the form of a slave and by becoming like human beings. When he found himself in the form of a human, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore, God highly honored him and gave him a name above all names, so that at the name of Jesus everyone in heaven, on earth, and under the earth might bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Philippians 2:5-11

Think

The best actors embody a character by disappearing into the role. In 2012, Daniel Day-Lewis won an Oscar at the Academy Awards for his portrayal of Abraham Lincoln. While his lanky build, tall stature, and long face resembled the 16th President of the United States, Day-Lewis mastered the rhythm and tone of Lincoln’s voice, as well as his mannerisms. He made a convincing and thorough transformation.

Even more impressively, Jesus embraced a role altogether different. Knowing that “he emptied himself by taking the form of a slave” reminds us that Jesus came to serve with an obedient and humble attitude.

God calls us, as followers of Christ, to empty ourselves, too. We have a part to play as imitators of Jesus – not pretenders who step in and out of such a role. The name of Jesus echoes through history as the name above all names. God elevated Christ as the King of Kings – a worthy role model to follow. Rely on God to help you know what to say and where to stand. Action!

Brian Abel

Pray

God, I’m still figuring out who I am. Be patient with me. I need time to understand what it means to empty myself. I do want to serve you and follow Jesus. In his name, amen.

Go

Rise from a kneeling place.

Embrace God’s call to put others first today.

Resist the urge to find a spotlight.

Allow the light of God’s love to shine brightly, even boldly, through you.