Philippians 2:5-11 (NRSV)
Read Philippians 2:5-11 on biblegateway.com
Verse 5Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, Verse 6who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, Verse 7but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, Verse 8he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death- even death on a cross. Verse 9Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, Verse 10so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, Verse 11and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Devotion
It's actually true--less is more. Jesus tried to be a humble servant. In doing so, he was exalted and his name was lifted above all names. He wasn't striving to be lifted up. He was striving to be obedient. All of us seek ways to be honored. "Do you know who I saw last week?" we ask our friend after an encounter with a celebrity. "May I have your autograph?" we beg, so we'll have proof of our brush with greatness. We hope our status might climb if we connect with someone mighty. Jesus wasn't looking for the limelight. He was looking for the hungry, the naked and the lowly. He was looking to serve. That's why his name is above all names. That's why he is worthy of our worship and praise.
Prayer
Lord, let me serve you by being a humble servant to others. Amen.