Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Oneness through humility and service

Bible Reading: : Philippines 2: 1-11

Key verse:  

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves." - Philippians 2:3

DEVOTION

After 27 years of brutal imprisonment on Robben Island for fighting apartheid, the world expected Nelson Mandela to seek revenge. Instead, when released and later elected president, Mandela chose forgiveness. He famously stated, “If I didn't leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I’d still be in prison.” He prioritized national unity over personal grievance, embracing his former oppressors and working to build a democratic, multi-racial South Africa. Nelson Mandela's selfless act of wearing the Springboks rugby jersey was a powerful symbol of reconciliation, unity, and forgiveness after apartheid. By embracing the jersey, which was once a symbol of white minority rule, Mandela helped transform it into a new national emblem, uniting a deeply divided South Africa through sport.
In Philippians 2:1-11, Paul teaches that Christian oneness and unity is achieved through humility and selfless service. Paul urges believers to adopt the "mind of Christ" to overcome selfish ambition and internal conflict within the church. Jesus, though God, "emptied himself," becoming a humble servant obedient to death on a cross. He didn't cling to status, instead He served.
Our unity in the church should mirror this divine pattern. We achieve oneness not by asserting our rights, but by considering others more significant than ourselves. By serving each other with genuine humility, we reflect Christ's self-giving love, leading to true harmony and ultimately glorifying God the Father'

PRAYER

Dear God, Help us to set aside our selfish ambition and vain conceit. Help us to have the mind of Christ in our relationship with others . In Jesus' name we pray , Amen .

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

“Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it's thinking of yourself less.”
― C.S. Lewis


Anila Thomas
South Florida Mar Thoma Church

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