Imagine a scene in eternity past where the triune Godhead purposes the creation of humanity in His image – loved ones to be drawn into affectionate communion with God. Then He decrees their redemption and reconciliation necessitated by their revolt. At what cost would such an achievement be accomplished? A cost that only a holy and good triune God could provide. The second Person of this Trinity would willingly limit Himself by entering the creaturely life of these loved ones in order to live perfectly, only to be sacrificed and experience separation from the Father, Whom He had enjoyed eternally. What must have been His first thought? His first thought was not of Himself. It must have been of the love He had for His Father – His desire and delight to please Him and do His will. His first thought must have included the love He and His Father had for these image-bearing creatures.
This was not only His first thought, but His continual thought – His attitude. Yes, there was a sting in it. The cost would be great – almost too much to bear. But this was a charge He received from His Father, and He laid down His life of His own accord (John 10:18). This attitude of humility is made clear and celebrated in the Christmas story.
His commissioned messenger, Paul, gives this charge to the church, Make your own attitude that of Christ Jesus (Phil. 2:5 HCSB). In every encounter and decision, your first thought is not to be of yourself i.e., “How does this impact me?” “What does this do for me?” “What will this cost me?” “What will I get out of this?” “How does this line up with my agenda or what I want?” But rather, “How does this align with God’s character and purpose?” “Will this point others to Him?” “Will others sense His goodness, His grace?” “Will this provide remedy to human brokenness?” This is the humble attitude of Jesus. This is the Christmas spirit. So may this season foster in us not only a spirit of giving, but a habit of making my own attitude that of Christ Jesus.
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