Philippians 2:4-10

A servant does not rank above his master, so we are to adopt his pattern of letting go of rights and privileges to help those in need like he did. As a result, exaltation comes from outside us rather than from self-advancement. That approach avoids the negatives that come from using competition to achieve prominence and self-esteem.

As we observe these emblems, we identify with Christ and consequently with the mentality he demonstrated in giving up the free exercise of his rights as deity. Likewise, we do not give up who we are when we serve others. Instead, we gain a sense of satisfaction, we receive honor from those we’ve helped, we experience exaltation from God for exhibiting the attitude of his Son.

Hymn: “Thou Didst Leave Thy Throne” by Emily E. S. Elliott