Philippians 2:1-11

Philippians 2:1-11 
English Standard Version (ESV)

  What does Christmas mean to you?  We all have so many competing images -- the lights, the trees, the memories, the events.  Christmas often comes packed full of social events, so that we end up so busy we're not sure what has happened as the weeks have slid by and Christmas is suddenly upon us!  It's less than a week from today -- are you ready?
  Two thousand years ago, the world wasn't ready.  The world thought the Messiah might come in as a conquering hero, but he came as a dependent baby.  I'm not ready for the Messiah today -- I love him and confess him as King, but my life often denies him through my actions. 
  So as we prepare for Christmas, here's a question -- what's your mindset? 
  Are you ready for a King to set things right?  Are you ready for a King to set your heart right, so that you might worship and have your joy be made complete?  Are you ready for complete humility, even to the point of death for the sake of others?  Are you ready to look to the interests of others?
  Here's a thought -- imagine that Christ has given you a set of gifts, and your purpose is to give them to others.  What's it feel like to give away something that was meant for you?  How does it feel to be a part of making someone else joyful?  How can you serve another?
  Christmas is a reminder of what God has done for us.  How can we celebrate Christmas by serving others?