Christology 101 - The Humility of Christ

"And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." (Phil. 2:8)

When the 'fullness of time was come' God's eternal Son came to earth, born of Mary a virgin. We celebrate Christmas in commemoration of that great miraculous event. I see the Lord's humility at His entrance into our world. World leaders have their conclaves and pomp whenever they make an appearance, but a manger sufficed the Lord. Honored guests and dignitaries, diplomats, and high ranking officials often greet each other, but shepherds were beckoned to greet the new born king. I see the Lord's humility in laying aside His will and submitting it to the Father during His earthly ministry. The Lord's humility is evident when He endured temptations and trials. During His earthly ministry He choose to work with His apostles who had their problems (interestingly it was some manifestation of 'pride.'). He choose to heal the sick, He was not ashamed to be identified with sinners. He taught us the spirit of the Law, and how we should love one another as brothers in Christ. The greatest of all demonstration, in my mind, of humility is His death on the cross. He knew He would bear all or our sins, be separated from the Father, suffer judgment on our behalf, and yet He laid down His life for us. He suffered a death that was not fit for a Roman citizen at that time.

Jesus said: "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." (Matt. 11:28-30) What a contrast to the Pharisees (who basically earned a reputation of being hypocrites). And what a Savior. Some may think, that what He said was a proud statement, but they are ignorant of the humility of Christ. Remember Jesus is also God, and God cannot lie. Jesus said: "learn of me." I pray that we do, I know I constantly need a course in humility.