Pastor John Granchie.

Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, 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. Philippians 2:5-8

In this scripture Paul points us to Jesus and His commitment to God’s calling. Jesus is our ultimate example and Savior – He made the ultimate sacrifice. Here are four steps of commitment Jesus took as revealed in these Scriptures.

*Remember Jesus gave up His form as God to take on human form.

*Remember Jesus emptied Himself of His rights and became a slave.

*Remember Jesus humbled Himself for us.

* Remember Jesus became obedient to the point of death so we could have eternal life.

Commitment is like prayer; it is often talked about but seldom practiced. You’ve heard the phrase: “Walk the Talk.” If what we claim to believe and the way we live do not line up with each other, we have to question our level of commitment. Walking the talk requires commitment. The scripture above outlines steps of commitment.

This Easter season, work on yielding control to God. When things are beyond your control rather than struggle with it, pray, “Help me remember you are God and I am not!” As slaves of The King, we don’t have rights. We belong to God. This month let us not fight against God’s will but rather learn to recognize it and abide with it.

This Month leading up to Easter, let us give up feeling superior to others. Let us be humbly dependent on God. We have all heard the phrase before about ‘Dying to Self.’ I pray you begin to talk with God, ask the Holy Spirit to empower us that we might ‘Walk the Talk:’ come to the place of a true servant, humble to the place of total commitment and empty ourselves that God may fulfill His calling in us. I realize these steps lead to total surrender, but what a blessed place to be. Start where you are and go to a deeper commitment! Walk the Talk!

John Granchie is the pastor of Peace Church in Gladbrook.