This morning, we will hear quite a bit about humility. The Gospel Invitation from Philippians reminds us that Jesus emptied Himself (some versions say, “made Himself nothing”) by coming to us as a servant—or as the poet puts it, “His chariot is humility” (Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates). The hymn All Creatures Of Our God And King calls all creation to “worship Him in humbleness,” and we will respond by offering our “humble thanks” to our Lord (To Our Redeemer’s Glorious Name). After hearing Jesus teach James and John that “whoever would be great among you must be your servant” (Mark 10:43), we pray that He would “teach us … true humility” (Speak, O Lord). His willingness to “stoop to serve” inspires us that “…what Christ in love so true has freely done for one and all, let us now gladly do” (Love Consecrates The Humblest Act). Our service closes with the familiar hymn O For A Thousand Tongues To Sing, which mirrors the close of this week’s Sermon text: when the disciples still do not understand Jesus’ message, it is the blind who behold their Savior and the humble poor who believe. —Henry C. Haffner
Key Words: Delivered, Condemn, Ask, Authority, Serve, Beggar
Keystone Verse: The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many. (Mark 10:45)