Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. Philippians 2:7 (NLT)
Have you ever marveled at stories of greatness, where the least likely individuals rise to fame and fortune? Our hearts are naturally drawn to such ascension stories. But what about a story of purposeful descent—of coming down from unimaginable heights for the sake of others?
Today’s scripture reveals Jesus Christ's breathtaking humility. Seated on the highest throne, the King of Kings chose to descend to earth. Why would He do such a thing?
Here are a few reasons Jesus would do this.
God’s Plan: From the beginning, God planned to redeem humanity from sin. Jesus' descent to earth was essential to fulfill this divine plan.
God’s Love: By coming to earth, Jesus provided the ultimate example of God's love for humanity. His willingness to leave the glory of heaven and take on human form shows the depth and extent of God's love for each of us.
God’s Character: Jesus' life on earth gave us a clear picture of God's character. Through His teachings, actions, and interactions with others, Jesus revealed the nature of God—His compassion, mercy, justice, and righteousness. Furthermore, He came to teach us how to live in a way that pleases God. His teachings, such as the Sermon on the Mount, guide righteous living–how to be Holy as God is Holy.
God’s Grace: Jesus' descent was marked by a life of service and sacrifice, demonstrating God's grace to its fullest. Philippians 2:8 (NIV) states, “And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!” Through His sinless life and sacrificial death, Jesus conquered sin and death and offered the grace of eternal life to all who believe in Him (John 1:14).
God’s Kingdom: Jesus' ministry was centered on proclaiming the Kingdom of God. Through His teachings and miracles, He demonstrated the arrival of God's Kingdom on earth and invited people to be part of it.
Jesus' descent from heaven to earth is a profound example of humility and love. Just as He humbled Himself and served humanity, we are called to emulate His example in our daily lives. Instead of seeking greatness and recognition, we should strive for humility, serve others selflessly, and reflect God's love in our actions. By loving God wholeheartedly and loving our neighbors as ourselves, we fulfill the essence of Jesus' teachings and contribute to a community grounded in love, grace, and mutual care.
Heavenly Father, we are in awe of Your boundless love and humility. Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, to show us the way to true greatness through humble service. Help us to follow His example in our daily lives. Grant us the grace to love You wholeheartedly and to serve others selflessly. Fill our hearts with compassion, mercy, and a desire to reflect Your love in all we do. May we build a community grounded in Your love and grace. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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