Thus the concept of reversal speaks to issues of identity found not in oneself, one’s position, or personal power, but in dependence on God. It refers to a profound willingness to sacrifice what gives people status and meaning in their current context for a value that comes from God alone. As such it causes the credit to be given to God rather than to flawed and sinful humanity. When applied to the community, it results in the deep unity of his people as they consider others before themselves and challenges leaders to be primary examples of this submission to God.
