Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. Philippians 2:5-7 (ESV)
This week has been surreal. I was born and raised in Southeast Texas, where a hurricane with a wimpy name like Harvey unleashed a flood of waters that has devastated the coastal region and drowned my hometown of Lumberton. My family is safe, but I have numerous friends in the region who have lost everything but their lives. Homes, cars, possessions – all lost to the rising waters.
But in the midst of this tragedy and loss, there has been beauty. Incredible love has been displayed as people risked their lives to rescue others. Strangers have given selflessly and generously to provide for their immediate needs. Neighbors helping neighbors. Person after person choosing to focus on the good instead of the bad. Choosing to smile and extend kindness to those around them, rather than putting up walls of division and hate. Churches, schools, government buildings opened as shelters for those displaced from their homes and volunteers prepare and serve food, sort donations, and care for the evacuees.
People emptying themselves, like Jesus did.
Jesus is God, but He took human form and endured suffering so that He could relate to us. So that He could walk through this tragedy with each person experiencing loss. Without complaining, He lived a life of joyful service, extending even to His death on the cross in my place, and yours.
Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. Philippians 2:14-16 (ESV)
We are seeing a masterclass in this passage down in Texas right now. Texans shining like lights in the darkness. Serving like Jesus served. Loving like Christ loved us.
Let us follow the example of Christ. And the example we are seeing lived out in the lives of those affected by Harvey.
To give of ourselves, freely, generously, and joyfully. To do all things without complaining or arguing. Praying for those in need and taking action to help. Humbly serving others. With a smile and a hug.
Action Step: What need comes to your mind right now? Is it victims of flooding in Texas, the wildfires in Montana, or some local needs? Take a moment to pray for those people. Then look up how best to help them. For instance, people in Southeast Texas don’t need coats (they probably didn’t own one before this happened) because it is 90-100 degrees and 90—100 percent humidity down there. Local churches and organizations are directly helping people in those areas. CLICK HERE FOR A LIST OF TRUSTWORTHY ORGANIZATIONS AND DONATION NEEDS. Even a small donation can make a big difference.
Dear God, thank you for all your blessings, even those that appear in the midst of tragedy. Help us to be Your hands and feet, extending Your love to those in need. Open our eyes to how You want us to help and what to do. Give us wisdom and direction. In Jesus’ name, amen.