December 18

Our attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus
who being in very nature God did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death--even death on a cross. Therefore, God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:7-11

We say so glibly that our mission statement for the church is Everyone becoming a disciple of Christ. Yet as I read Paul's challenge to the Philippians, I wonder if we have the vaguest idea what it means to be disciples. We know disciples are learners, followers of Christ, dedicated to his purposes in this world, reaching out to others for him. But can we say that our attitude is the same as the attitude of Christ given above?

Are we living for God our Father? Are we considering our wants to be nothing as we strive for what he wants? Are we willing to die for him? Dare we answer?

Father, help us this Christmas to want what you want, to bow our knees and really confess Christ as Lord. Amen.