A Letter from Bishop Chris
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
A man once said, “I woke up today determined to have a Christlike attitude, then I looked at my text messages!”
We’ve all been there. You start the day with good intentions, maybe even a devotional and a decent cup of coffee, but then the dog vomits on your briefcase, your kids are arguing, someone cuts you off in traffic, and that email you so carefully crafted receives angry and accusing replies. Suddenly the “mind of Christ” feels more like “mind of mildly (or majorly) annoyed disciple.”
Let’s face it, attitude is like a spiritual wardrobe. You can dress yourself in joy, peace, patience… or you can put on sarcasm, self-pity, bitterness and blame. The fact is that life will hand you many situations you cannot control or change; but your attitude? That’s your spiritual wardrobe choice.
The apostle Paul wrote the book of Philippians from prison - not exactly a retreat setting - and yet the whole letter radiates joy, gratitude, peace, and confidence in Christ. His message was sent to people who were anxious for him, struggling with unity, and suffering persecution for their faith. What was his counsel to them?
“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.” (Phil 2:3-4)
This is a mental decision we make; a decision not to focus on self but on those around us. It’s a servant mentality that Paul encourages - an attitude filled with authentic and gracious unselfishness.
Reflecting on Jesus’ incarnation and death, Paul continues, “Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross (Phil 2:5-8).
Do you realize that behind all that Jesus did, it was an attitude that brought the Savior amongst us? He deliberately chose to empty himself and he willingly endured the cross because he valued us so much and he knew we were powerless to deliver ourselves. He placed a higher significance on our salvation than he did on his own comfort or position. He sought to honor the Father rather than keep honor for himself. He humbly set aside his glory, leaving heaven to serve us.
One translation of verse 2:5 reads, “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus.” In other words, this attitude - the humility, the patience, the love - it’s already available to us because it’s Christ’s - AND the wonderful news is that He lives in us!
So I’m not just talking about adjusting our attitudes like we are flipping a switch or working harder to muster something up. I’m talking about aligning with the mindset of Christ - a mindset He shares with us. It’s already ours in Him. We must learn to draw near and receive what He is more than willing to give.
I leave you with these words from Paul, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4:6-7)
Blessings,
The Rev. Chris Warner
Bishop