Paul reminds the church in Philippi, that “Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God…emptied himself, taking the form of a slave.” This a reminder to all of us in the church whether we are ministers, elders, board members, council chairs, active members, first-time visitors or curious seekers that we are called to serve one another.

I find it quite interesting that Paul chooses to respond to a practical problem in the church with a big theological answer. These folks are resorting to petty little jealousies and arguments. However, rather than scold or lecture, Paul gives them a huge dose of theology.

Paul wants them to remember that their childish behavior can cause them to forget the central event of their faith, the cross. When we keep the cross before us, we continue to remind ourselves of the very fact that Christ, in the name of love, gave himself, in the name of love, to the world.  When the most powerful army in the world tortured him he refused to return violence with violence.  When the cross is central to all that we do, we will be constantly reminded that the only path before the church is the way named love.

That path is not always the easiest one to follow. We can easily forget Christ’s example and seek the ways of power while forgetting about love.  If we follow Christ we must allow love and an attitude of service to guide all that we do.

An Indian woman, a Christian, came to Mother Teresa for help.  Her neighbor, a Hindu woman, was hungry.  She had been without food for days.  Mother Teresa brought food to the Hindu woman.  She, in turn, decided to share half of what she had received with her neighbor, a Muslim.  That day-from a Christian, to a Hindu, to a Muslim-the Gospel of Love and Service was proclaimed.

The same thing is true in our families.  Tony Campolo was leading a seminar on relationships when he was interrupted near the end by one of the students who said, “Dr. Campolo, you haven’t answered the question, ‘Who is supposed to be the head of the household, the husband or the wife?’ ” Campolo replied, “The mature Christian never asks who is going to be the master but always asks: ‘Where is Christian service needed?’ “

Grace and Peace to you,

Glen