Laying Aside Crowns; From Prison with Joy - Christian Lindbeck (Phil. 2:1-4)

 

Strength plus competition
equals triumph (we hope) -
the winning is all
and losing,
nothing.
Or so American 
culture believes,
loving champions
above all else.

Paul's biceps bulged
with Roman citizenry,
correct family lineage,
and zealousness for the Law -
yet this champion status
was set aside,
considered nothing
beside the treasure
of Christ's acquaintance.

Christ - the Lord
of the Universe -
champion of champions,
was Paul's example;
stooping down
among the detritus
of human existence,
shedding his regal rights,
turning earthly values
on end:
     meekness becomes strength,
     joy comes with suffering,
     loss is gain. 

Paul says,
if you appreciate
God's family
to which you now belong;
if you truly care
selflessly for one another;
then fill me with joy
by thinking as one
in this area:
that we are united
soul-to-soul;
that underneath
skin and bone,
our blood pulses
as on;
that God's purpose
may lead us.

Throw out 
shallow pride.
Elevate others
above yourself,
and love,
love,
love one another.

Try this formula:
humility plus love
equals joy,
and see if it is not
infinitely more
fulfilling
than personal strength (power)
applied for personal gain (power)
and worldly success (power).

You will bring
Shalom 
to a world writhing
in the grip
of cynicism
and one-up-man-ship,
fear
and degradation.

Will we choose
the dead-end road
of personal interest
or follow Christ's
example,
empowered by the 
Spirit,
and with true humility,
lay aside
our crowns?