Phil 2:3-5

I wanted to take some time to write about this scripture because it's what I have on the back of my t-shirts. The reason that I selected it is because I have been challenged to really reflect on what this scripture means by the Empower-A-Child staff. Their goal is to help build team unity and this scripture encourages us to be ready to work together with individuals from all over the world, to respect one another and help encourage each other to reach our goals!

"If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus."

As I began to reflect on this scripture, I tried to put myself in Paul's position. He is writing to the church in Philippi from his jail cell. In the first scripture Paul is filled with loving words for this group of people who aren't getting along. I kept reading that over and over again, trying to picture what I would say to a group of people who weren't getting along. Isn't it the easiest thing to just get angry, and have word vomit, just to regret it later? Already, before verse 2, he is encouraging them and reminding them of their purpose together, praying for them, rejoicing with them, and loving them. Then comes the challenge.

To me, Philippians 2 is our challenge! No matter the circumstance we are called to think about the attitude of Christ. In a few days I will be leaving for Uganda. I have no idea what it will be like, I don't know anyone that's there, I've never traveled abroad before, and I don't know what to expect. But, through it all I will keep this scripture on my heart. I already know there will be days with no water, no electricity, times where we might be running late or early for an activity. Imagine what God can do in those moments- moment of silence and weakness. I've never had to boil my water to drink it before and I've always had plenty to snack on. I look forward to moments like that. The lessons that can be learned from those thoughts, or realities once I get there. I also look forward to meeting the staff, the children, the villagers and the other volunteers and I pray that while I am there I will continually remember the attitude of Christ with everything that we do! Imagine how God can work in a body of believers who are all united in Christ and trusting that God's plan is perfect and just! It's exciting!

So my challenge to you is that as you continue to pray about me and my trip, you will also pray to have an attitude like Christ. We are fortunate that we can look to our bibles for examples of how Christ lived! I think when we start to live like Christ, we begin to understand how the Lord has provided everything that we need and through that we can be so thankful! Thanks so much for reading this and for your prayers and support :)