Up or Down?

Our daily news diet tells us of people going from 'hero to zero' in a moment - because their reputation or image has been ruined. Some people's finances go the same way - and there is great nervousness.
But most people are trying to work out the best way to climb the greasy pole, or win in the rat race, without it seriously damaging their health, or destroying the lives.
Some try to buy their way up - we often call that bribery, and it is deemed illegal! But in other cultures, it is expected that gifts accompany contracts and so on. But the aim is always to get a bargain that will deliver the best deal. The world of politics, FIFA, and much else seems to run this way.
But Jesus shows us a completely different way. Tomorrow is Ascension Day, when we recall the return of Jesus to heaven, following the 40 days after Easter. St. Paul reflects on that transformation, when writing to his friends in Philippi. Paul points out that Jesus didn't get the glory of heaven by some shady bargain, but by willing and total sacrifice. These are some of the most profound words in Scripture.
Though he was God,he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to.
 Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being.
   When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God
      and died a criminal’s death on a cross.
Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honour and gave him the name above all other names,  that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,  and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2.5-11)
The lesson for us is that in the Kingdom of God, the ways of the world are not to be applied. We are called to follow Jesus our Saviour as example and model. We are not to fight for our privileges, or demand our rights. We are called to serve others, and leave God to sort out the pecking order in due time.
What a relief! This way will be much more exciting, as we see God working astonishing miracles around us, for which we didn't bargain!
Best wishes,
Richard