Philippians 2:7

But emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 

(Philippians 2:7 ESV)

Die to self. A phrase often used here in Guatemala. Also something I am having a hard time doing. I feel like the longer I am here the harder I'm trying to hold on to certain parts of myself. How humbling this verse is as just moments before writing this I was day dreaming of the Eastern Idaho State Fair. It's that time of year again. My family packs up and head twenty minutes south for tiger ears, dutch oven cooking, and the smash up derby. This year I will not be partaking in this awesome night of fun. But instead of feeling sorry for myself, I need to realize I'm having the time of my life in Guatemala with my new family. It is one of my life's biggest blessings to be here and I cannot say that about any state fair I have ever went to.
When I'm struggling with dying to self, or I just can't seem to muster the desire to serve my brothers and sisters, I try to imagine Jesus' life. I try to imagine all the things He could have been doing while here on earth. The expensive things He could have worn, the elaborate parties He could have attended, and the fine food and wine He could have indulged in. He could have had a life fit for an earthly king. But instead, when Pilate asked, "Are you the King of the Jews?" He responded in saying, "You have said so." An answer He knew would get Him crucified on a cross and separated from His Father.
As Pastor Steve has said, the only reasonable response to this ineffable deed, is to die to self. When I'm selfishly craving a pumpkin spice latte or a Friday night football game, I need to remind myself that Jesus didn't partake in the luxuries of our world, even though He was present at the Creation.