Philippians 2:5-8
“An Example in Servanthood”
Last week we met Mr. Grapes (Khaghoghian). We realized that God is gracious and generous. He invites all of us, even those who are left out, to come and receive the grace.
We also discussed last Sunday the issue of working for the Lord. Some of us who have worked for Him for years, could complain about it. However, we should rejoice for the opportunity of service. We should be glad we started it early in our lives. What a privilege! Serving the Lord is joy, not punishment.
Last Sunday evening I met my nephew Aren who had also preached about the topic of service a week ago in Fresno. As we shared sermons, I realized he had used one of my favorite passages: Phil.2:5-8. Aren’s diagram of that passage can be found in your bulletins. (Please refer to diagram).
This is the formula according to which we can continue our life of Christian service. Jesus is our example. He, who had the very nature of God, emptied himself into the human body Moreover, he became a servant, and accepted to become the humblest servant. He bowed down and washed the disciples’ feet. Finally, he became obedient to death on the cross, the punishment of the criminals of his day.
This humble servant invites us to be like Him. He invites us to wash each others’ feet. We who are in the church, how do we react to this example set before us? Are we spectators or participants? Often we are like sports spectators. We sit back, relax and enjoy “the game” instead of getting into it and do the real exercise.
Some say when there is a concert you need an audience. Church is not a concert hall. We are not called to be spectators. Let us watch Badveli. Or let us watch the choir. We need to participate, we have to; there is no other alternative.
Looking back…
Through Moses, God told the people to WALK, ACT and DO. The landowner went downtown and brought people to work for him. The English message will continue with Matthew 21, a new parable told by Jesus.