Scripture
8 And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
by becoming obedient to death—
even death on a cross!
Reflection
God teaches that for us to be fully free, we must submit our whole lives to Him. That is radical obedience. We are called to acknowledge that our life is not our own; but it belongs to him who created us, loves us, and knows what is ultimately best for us.
Everything in our flesh will cry out to resist that calling, to cling to the control we think we have, and to only follow God when it is convenient. But Christ taught us true obedience. Following God is not simply a life hack to get more blessings, rather it is nothing short of total submission. For some of us, that may mean leaving a career to follow him. For others, it may mean sacrificing relationships to honor him. And for others, following Christ may even mean death. This type of radical obedience is only possible when we truly trust the one whom we follow.
Radical obedience is summed up by this quote by Dorothy Day: “Christians are commanded to live in a way that doesn’t make sense if God doesn’t exist.”
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Health Care Professionals. Pray for strength, hope, courage and compassion for those who care for the sick. Pray that they would be protected and have enough resources.
