Therefore God exalted him to the highest place…  (Philippians 2:9a)

This is deep and profound and utterly beyond me.

The word “Therefore” indicates to me that Jesus was exalted as a result of his obedience to the Father.  Yet he was raised to the position that was already his very nature—the position he gave up when he came to us as a man.  Why could he not simply claim by right that which was his from eternity?

He could have, of course.

He chose not to.  

He chose to follow the path of sacrifice and submission.  I am continually amazed, not only by Christ’s power, but by his willingness to restrain that power.  I have no doubt that, if I were in his place (as unlikely an image as you’re ever gonna get), I would not have waited for the Father to exalt me.  I would have exalted myself.

Reason #42 to be glad I’m not God.

Happy Monday, Beloved.