DAILY READING
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REFLECTION
It's True!
by Elaine Pierce
"Therefore, God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:9-11)
I've heard many preachers say that when you see the word "therefore" in scripture, you need to ask yourself "what's it there for?" So let's look at the verses before today's text for context. God exalted Jesus, but first Jesus humbled himself by leaving heaven and coming to earth as a human being. And, as you all know, he was crucified on a cross, like a common criminal. Of course we know the story doesn't end there, thanks be to God. We know that Jesus rose from the dead and sits at the right hand of the Father. We know that "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." (Revelation 21:4)
The Apostles' Creed states that "I believe in God the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus Christ, his only Son our Lord." Scripture is clear that God's plan to save the world from sin and eternal damnation was to send his son, his only son, to earth as the redemption for our sins. All the good deeds in the world won't get us into heaven, my friends. (See Mark 10 - the Rich Young Ruler - just one example of how money and works aren't the golden ticket.)
As I meditate on these verses, I am reminded of what James says in chapter 4, verse 10:
"Humble yourself in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up."
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Spend some time today rejoicing that, in God's timing, every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of the Father.
I rejoice, Lord, that one day your name will be above every name. Thank you for your word, that offers us the sure promise that this world is not our final destination, and that one day we will sing your praises all day long. We love you, and we long to serve you. Amen.
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