Paid at the Cross

That though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich. 2 Corinthians 8:9

D.L. MOODY
This poor world is groaning and sighing for sympathy—human sympathy. I am quite sure it was that in Christ’s life which touched the hearts of the common people. He made Himself one with them. He who was rich for our sakes became poor. He was born in the manger so that He might put Himself on a level with the lowest of the low.

ERWIN LUTZER
Jesus became poor and became the victim of dishonor. In heaven, everyone knew who He was. On Earth, He was no longer honored—He was shouted at, spat upon, viciously attacked, and falsely accused. He did not believe that being equal with God meant He had to insist on keeping His high position; He took on the form of a servant (Philippians 2:5–8). He still retained God’s attributes. He was God in the flesh, but He gave up the use of those attributes and depended totally on the Father. That’s why He spent so much time in prayer.
No illustration is sufficient to illustrate the mystery of the Incarnation, but think of it this way: If someone were a millionaire and still worked and lived with the poorest of the poor, if he could live in a palace but chooses a hut—that choice helps us understand a little bit about the Incarnation and the tremendous price Jesus paid to redeem us. He humbled Himself and became a servant. Nobody has ever been that high who has willingly stooped that low. But through His poverty, we have become rich. Are we willing to accept poverty that God be glorified?

PRAYER
Father, break me of my selfishness and stinginess and make me giving and generous for your honor and glory.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS
Like a millionaire choosing a hut, what does it practically look like for you to intentionally "step down" to serve someone who can offer you nothing in return?

What specific comfort, position, or security are you most afraid of losing for the sake of Christ?