Calvin Miller, in his book “The Philippian Fragment,” takes a humorous and yet penetrating look at life within the church. The premises of the book is that a fragment of an ancient second-century writing has been recently unearthed. The fragment contains letters from Eusebius, the newly appointed bishop of Philippi to Clement the pastor of Coos. Eusebius tells of his struggles with influential members of the church who desires to be “crowned” as deacons. He speaks of leaders who are far more interested in status, power and influence than in sacrifice and service. No one is willing to serve at the leper colony but all want to “hold office” in the church.
The book is humorous and painful as it forces one to look in the mirror of church life. It is a not so subtle reminder that the church is composed of sinners who are stumbling towards perfection. True greatness and stature in the Kingdom of God is achieved through sacrificial service not through popularity or charisma.
Jesus, himself, is our great example as he chose the way of the cross. He chose it in eternity past as he agreed to the Father’s plan. He chose it against in the incarnation. His choice was reaffirmed in the wilderness temptation. He declared it again at the institution of the Lord’s Supper and in the Garden of Gethsemane. Finally his choice was openly displayed in the agony of Calvary. The call of the Christian life is a call to follow him. There is no great test in following him in triumphal procession. The real test is found on the road to suffering.
In his kingdom the way up is down. The path to greatness is through humility and sacrifice. That seems so foreign. You think maybe that’s why Isaiah says, “His ways are not our ways; his thoughts are not our thoughts?” That is why I must pray daily that the Father will renew my mind – that I might think his thoughts. I’ll see you Sunday.
Rod