What makes someone a success? We'd probably define it based on how much power and influence they accrue. Money is also a popular scorecard in our society. A long life could be considered a marker of success.
What about leading a movement for 3 years, then being wrongly convicted and sentenced to a publicly shameful death that was considered by most in society to be the height of humiliation? Would anyone brand such a figure as a success?
The word Paul uses at the beginning of verse 9 is fascinating. In verse 8, we're talking about Christ humbling himself to the point of death on a cross, which is the equivalent of the electric chair, and because Christ does this, THEREFORE God highly exalts Christ and bestows him glory and honor. His willingness to serve to the point of death leads to the highest possible honor.
What would society look like if we were willing to elevate service to such a lofty place today? Can you imagine if we found the people most willing to serve and gave them the honor and glory that we instead bestow upon people who are in movies or have large social media followings? Imagine what the debates in Congress would be like if it were filled with people who were elected to places of prestige because they were the most intent on serving others. Imagine how the country would be different if our children were presented role models of people who were servants.
How can we start? How can we serve today? How can we support those who are serving? How can we join with them in prayer and elevate their causes, that service might be praised?
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