stephen R Harrison

(Read Philippians 2:6-8)

Many people have exemplified humility.  Some point to the well-known like Mother Teresa. Others look to the overlooked like a mother who changes diapers, wipes noses, and cares for every need of their children without recognition.  Ask someone to list the qualities of humility, and you’ll get a mixed bag of characteristics, such as admitting when you are wrong, not boasting about your strengths, and not thinking of yourself as better than anyone. I’ve met many people in life with humble qualities. My dad was one of them. I’m not sure I ever heard him say the word humble, but he was. He worked hard, served our family, sacrificed willingly, was not arrogant, did not boast, did not seek recognition, did not demand respect, did not gloat about successes, and placed others before himself.  He lived those with a host of other qualities. What I saw most in my dad was Jesus. His relationship with Christ permeated every part of his life. 

When I think about humility, I think beyond my dad to the One my dad lived for.  I think about Jesus.  Philippians 2:5-11 displays the humble nature of Jesus the Suffering Servant.  I see three main qualities in Jesus in verses 6-8.  He did not exploit others in His deity (v. 6), He served others in His humanity (v. 7), and He sacrificed for others in His misery (v. 8).  Sometimes, when we gain or are promoted in power or position, it goes to our heads. We abuse the authority we receive by taking advantage of others.  We can be demanding, selfish, power-hungry bullies who use people for their benefit. Any privilege, power, or prestige we attain typically leads to plotting, pummeling, and plundering. Not so with Jesus! Instead, He served people by becoming like them, except He was without sin.  

Regarding the incarnation, don’t think of Jesus as an “undercover boss” who disguised Himself in hopes of catching someone messing up. We were already messed up! Jesus didn’t think becoming human was a demotion either as He remained entirely God at the same time. The purpose of the incarnation was to be the Savior of humanity and to “serve and not be served” (Mark 10:45) by shedding His blood for the forgiveness of sins. His crucifixion should have been our crucifixion.  He was our willing substitutionary sacrifice – an unblemished, perfect Lamb (1 Peter 1:19). His ultimate selfless and sacrificing service atoned for our sins. What a glorious display of humility!

Questions for the Head (Think)

• As you think about Jesus as the ultimate example of humility, which of His qualities and actions come to mind?

Reflection for the Heart (Worship)

• Spend a few moments thanking Jesus for His selflessness, sacrifice, and service.  What love!

Action for the Hands (Do)

• We are told to have the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5).  This should lead to the actions of Christlikeness (v. 6-11).  How’s your attitude toward selflessness, serving, and sacrifice?  How has this affected these actions in your life?  Do you need to correct any attitudes or actions?