Lord Jesus, I’m often astonished when I consider your divinity and your humanity.  All that exists was created through you, yet you became part of your creation through the incarnation.  The humility of your birth continued throughout your public ministry and even to your crucifixion.  At no time did you use the relationship with your Father to your own advantage.  Rather, you took on the role of a slave, allowing yourself to be mocked, beaten and murdered when at any moment you could have stopped it all.  

 

My nature is not like yours.  Though I am also a human being, I am fallen and sinful, twisted in my imaginations and motives.  Though I try to be humble, I am self interested.  Yet, you have saved me, and I am redeemed from the power of sin.  You know me intimately, and I have grown in spiritual maturity.  Now, in your infinite wisdom you have seen fit to include me in the leadership of my church.  How can I have the same mindset as Jesus?  How can I avoid using my position to benefit myself, my family or my friends? How do I prevent my words and decisions from causing harm to those in my church? 

 

Lord, when I falter please correct me quickly.  Bring the conviction of the Holy Spirit, a gentle word from a friend, or harsh words if I really need them!  Continue to transform me by the renewing of my mind.  Make me walk closely with you in my devotions and service.  Allow me to honor you more and more as the mindset of Jesus develops within me.  Amen.

 

EM

 

__________________

 

 

In your relationships with one another, 

    have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

Who, being in very nature God,
    did not consider equality with God 

        something to be used to his own advantage;
  rather, he made himself nothing
    by taking the very nature of a servant,
    being made in human likeness.
And being found in appearance as a man,
    he humbled himself
    by becoming obedient to death—
        even death on a cross!