May 28

And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross. — Phil 2:8 BSB

One of the hardest things for a proud or superior nature is to submit to authority, to surrender one’s will, and take a place of subjection. Yet Christ, who had commanded from eternity, took on the form of a servant, renouncing His independence, His right to choose, and His liberty to please Himself. He became a servant, so perfect that the Father declared, "Behold, My Servant, in whom My soul delights." Jesus’ life was one of constant ministry and service. He said, "The Son of Man came to serve," and "I can do nothing of Myself." His whole life was summed up in the phrase, "Not My will, but Yours be done." Have you learned the servant’s place, beloved?

Not only did He serve, but He became obedient to death—even death on a cross. His life was one of continual dying, culminating in the ultimate act of love: giving Himself over to death and shame for us.