Devotions

Rev Gav

Song

Philippians 2.6–11

Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God,
did not regard equality with God
as something to be exploited,
but emptied himself,
taking the form of a slave,
being born in human likeness.
And being found in human form,
he humbled himself
and became obedient to the point of death—
even death on a cross.

Therefore God also highly exalted him
and gave him the name
that is above every name,
so that at the name of Jesus
every knee should bend,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue should confess
that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.

Reflect

This passage from Paul’s letter to the church in Philippi, based on the original Greek texts, appears to be the lyrics to the first Christian poem or song! It is in the form of a statement of faith or creed, communicating core Christian beliefs, and is still recited today in church communities as part of their worship.

Although the lyric is nameless it is often called the Christ Hymn and it is important as it speaks about Christ’s humility and exaltation as well as Christ’s deity and humanity.

I’m not going to write more about this song as the whole point is that it connects with you in a deep way, but in the spirit of the original, I have put the words into rap for you. May it be a blessing!

Heaps of Peace

Rev Gav

Philippians 2.6-11

J to the E to the S U S
God to the core with a human address
Didn’t claim his fame, nor seek to gain
Match-making with God as a goal to attain
No, he made himself low, was a basement boss
Loss leading up his life-giving death on a cross
So we confess and profess, bending knee, no shocker
On the block, take stock, he’s the lead Chief Rocka

Note: A Chief Rocka is a term used in hip-hop to describe an MC or rapper who is at the top of their game. I first heard it used on the Lords of the Underground 1993 hit with the same name.

Pray

Holy God
Thank you for the gift
of poetry and music
that connects with my
body, emotions,
intellect, and spirit.
Bless those who
write, make, and produce
lyrics and music
that give you glory.
Now and forever.