Scripture: Philippians 2:4-7
Instead of each person watching out for their own good, watch out for what is better for others. 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…
Thought for the Day: A respected colleague in ministry, Rev. Glen Miles, posted a quote from Richard Rohr. The quote really spoke to me, especially at this time of year. Rohr wrote:
Much of common religion is well-disguised self-interest—high premium fire insurance for the afterlife—instead of self-emptying love.
God did not give away the divine nature through incarnation as a simple insurance policy for our afterlife. The gift of God in the form of a child was not to meet people’s self-serving interest, but to teach each of us the Christ-like purpose to which we have been called. The wonderful news of God’s love claiming us as beloved children does not give us reason to boast. Instead, we are to follow in the ways of Jesus – never exploiting our special place – but emptying ourselves and living the life of self-sacrificing love for the sake of the Gospel.
Prayer: O Lord God, we bow before you in complete and awe-struck humility. You have given so freely of yourself, to the point of sacrificial love. Let us do more than enjoy such a gift, but to see the responsibility we have as those who have fully accepted the gift. May Jesus, who first inspired our faith, continue to teach us the ways to the truthful life. Amen.
SUNDAY MORNING – December 24
Fourth Sunday of Advent
SUNDAY EVENING – Christmas Eve
