Quality Love
Scripture Reading — Philippians 2:1-13
Have the same attitude of mind Christ Jesus had: … taking the very nature of a servant.
Philippians 2:5-7
Following Jesus by yourself is like playing a trombone or an electric bass alone; both sound better in a group. Belonging to Jesus is a family matter. Salvation is experienced with Jesus’ people, his flock, his church, which he calls his body. Belonging to Jesus, we belong to his family, his church.
Warmth and kindness are rich in Paul’s talk about life together: “If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.” Paul writes these words to a church in Greece during his imprisonment in far-off Rome. And yet he has a clear vision of the sweet quality their life together should have.
This quality of love in a family, church, or community is rare, but wanting and working for it is a top priority.
Jesus has met this standard of love and service. And that is the reason Jesus is glorified, why everyone on earth and in heaven should call him Lord. Astounding! The servant is the King! Jesus’ servant nature, acted out by Christians, is why Jesus’ first-century followers cared not only for each other but also for plague victims, elderly people, and babies who had been left to die.
Lord Jesus, give me keen awareness of my family in Christ and of others who need your love and care. May I have a servant heart and hands to match. In your name, Amen.
About the author — John Rozeboom
Rev. John Rozeboom is a retired pastor of the Christian Reformed Church and a former director of Christian Reformed Home Missions. Currently he is coaching and supporting elders, ministers, and a congregation in mission. John and Linda Rozeboom live in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and they have two married children and five grandchildren.
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