READ: PHILLIPPANS 2: 1-11
When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on the cross. (V. 8)
When reading the promotional list for Major I felt betrayed and a knot formed in my stomach. How could the Chief promote another person to the job. Everyone, including me, expected the job to be mine. All of my dedication, hard work, accomplishments as a leader plus navigating the political waters associated with the position, vanished with the stroke of a pen. Instead of accepting reality with humility and grace, I reacted with intense anger that I freely shared with anyone who would listen to my tale of injustice. I was passed over a second time after assurances that my time was forthcoming. My professional attitude dipped to a record low along my performance altitude. I transformed from a team player into a bitter self-righteous and arrogant lone wolf. Pride inhibited my ability to be an effective leader and public servant.
I reflected back on my self-inflicted period of professional turmoil in this season of lent as I considered Jesus’ journey to the cross. Jesus, the Son of God, who has been with God from the beginning, (John 1: 1-51), became human in obedience to the will of his Father. He cast aside all of his divine rights and privileges (v. 7) and humbled himself to a criminal’s death in order to fulfill God’s plan for salvation for all people. Being human in nature he asked his Father, in the Garden of Gethsemane, (Luke 22:42) if it was possible to remove the cup of suffering he was about to endure. This was not God’s plan, and Jesus humbly accepted his role to the Glory of God and our salvation. He did not cop an attitude that he was God’s son and expected better treatment, nor resort to calling down legions of angels to rescue him. He set aside all of his rights as the “Suffering Servant,” (Isaiah 53), an attitude that gained him the highest altitude when God elevated him to the place of highest honor (v.9). He now sits at the right hand of the Father and reigns forever as our Lord and judge.
Thinking of Jesus’ service on my behalf I realize how self-centered I had become when a promotion I had no right to expect did not come my way. My job was to serve my fellow officers and community setting while aside personal expectations. Eventually I calmed down and the promotion came my way in the time and manner intended by God. God’s much needed attitude adjustment was just the lesson I needed as my departmental altitude eventually reached Deputy Chief.
PAUSE FOR REFLECTION AND PRAYER
What is the state of your spiritual attitude? Is it lowering or rising your altitude of faith?
Dear Jesus, help me adopt your attitude for my life.