DECEMBER 17 THE WAY DOWN IS THE WAY UP By James Jeffery D.D., Discipleship Pastor, Chapel Pointe Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. (Philippians 2:5-7) One of my memories of vacation trips with our children included a tour of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. The Gateway Arch dominates the Mississippi River waterfront and the cityscape at 630 feet tall. The ride in a tram to the viewing area at the top of the arch takes only four minutes. But to get to the tram, you need to walk down 46 stairs. In other words, the way up is first the way down. The Incarnation of Christ and His mission of redemption took Him on downward steps of humility that led to His ultimate exaltation in glory (see Philippians 2:5-11). In that way, He is an example of how humble servanthood entrusts to a faithful God our future approval, “well done, good and faithful servant” (see Philippians 2:1-5). Christ was in very nature God, yet He did not cling to His rights or the glory He enjoyed in heaven. Continuing to possess all the attributes of God, He gave up the privileges and recognition He deserved as God. He became a servant and wrapped Himself in humanity. In His humanity, He humbled Himself in obedience to God to the point of death. He died on a criminal’s cross for our sins though He had no sin. His Incarnation was for our redemption. God the Father then exalted Christ in His resurrection, His ascension, His enthronement in heaven, and His coming kingdom. The name of Jesus is above every name. Every knee will bow before Him in submission. Every tongue will declare His glory and lordship. Let us worship Him and follow His example in humility and servanthood.
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