What does it mean that Christ was made 'a little lower than the angels'?

The phrase 'a little lower than the angels' in Hebrews 2:7 refers to the humility and vulnerability of Christ in His incarnation. While angels are celestial beings with great power, Christ chose to be born into human weakness and frailty. This self-emptying exemplifies the profound love and grace of God in that He would lower Himself to take on our nature in order to reconcile us to Him. This act is essential to His purpose; He had to be made like His brethren in order to truly represent us and ultimately suffer the death meant for sinners. His humbled state does not diminish His divinity but rather amplifies His role as the servant-King who came to rescue His beloved creation.