By Eric Bradley, Good Library Head of Research & Instruction
Scripture: Philippians 2:5-11 (NRSV)
We all like to be in control. And, in many ways, we view control as a good thing. When life is spiraling out of control we seek help. When our finances are out of control we set a budget. When we can’t control what we eat or drink we go on a diet. When unjust structures control us or others we address them. When we’re in control things are good; when we’re not in control things are bad. Yet is control always all that it is cracked up to be? How many managers have deteriorated workplace morale and stifled productivity and innovation because of over-controlling a situation? How many have damaged or lost a close relationship because of control issues? Deep down it’s not control that we want, but things that are greater: wholeness, respect, safety, love. Clinging on to something can hurt us greatly, and of course hurt others in the process as well.
In Philippians 2 we read that Jesus was “in the form of God” but “humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death.” If anyone has ever had control it was Jesus. Yet Jesus gives up all control. He doesn’t run away from Jerusalem after he acknowledges that Judas is going to betray him. He doesn’t shy away from the Jewish leaders who capture him, or from Pilate who sentences him to death. He gives up all control and allows himself to die on a cross. Jesus gives up control, but by it obtains for us the greatest things: forgiveness and eternal life. As we seek God’s way, we move from an understanding of power that grasps for control over others to an understanding that true power comes from working with and for others in love.
May this coming Holy Week be a time of solemn reflection and gratitude of the cross and prepare us for the joy of Easter.
Scripture: Philippians 2:5-11 (NRSV)
Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, 6who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, 7but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, 8he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death— even death on a cross. 9Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, 10so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.