Press On!

For Sunday, June 18, 2023:

Philippians 3:14 NLT: “I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.”

Motivational speakers tell their listeners to first set a goal. If it’s not clear where you’re going, how will you know when you have arrived? Define what it is that you’re trying to achieve. Then you can divide that into incremental steps, and check things off as progress is being made.

Everyone knew about Greece’s national foot-races, the forerunner of today’s Olympics. The prize was often a wreath of olive branches, not particularly valuable but extremely coveted. Runners were told to keep their eye on the prize. Imagine yourself wearing the wreath! Picture yourself receiving accolades from your peers!

So Paul is comparing our journey towards heaven with a Greek race, something with which his audience would be familiar. There may be missteps along the way, but that’s not the issue. The Christian prize has eternal ramifications, and we are counseled to not get off on a side track. We’re to keep our eyes on victory, on the big prize. Jesus has already done most of the running for us, so have faith in him and in the Father. Remember that Jesus’ mission was to rescue mankind, and he always does a good job!

Celebrate your progress in the eternity race! Be joyful! Let your face know!

Pastor Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship