RCPC Greatest Hit from Jeanne Pritchard in 2002
I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don’t get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I’ve got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I’m off and running, and I’m not turning back.
So let’s keep focused on that goal, those of us who want everything God has for us. If any of you have something else in mind, something less than total commitment, God will clear your blurred vision—you’ll see it yet! Now that we’re on the right track, let’s stay on it.
Stick with me, friends. Keep track of those you see running this same course, headed for this same goal. There are many out there taking other paths, choosing other goals, and trying to get you to go along with them. I’ve warned you of them many times; sadly, I’m having to do it again. All they want is easy street. They hate Christ’s Cross. But easy street is a dead-end street. Those who live there make their bellies their gods; belches are their praise; all they can think of is their appetites.
But there’s far more to life for us. We’re citizens of high heaven! We’re waiting the arrival of the Savior, the Master, Jesus Christ, who will transform our earthy bodies into glorious bodies like his own. He’ll make us beautiful and whole with the same powerful skill by which he is putting everything as it should be, under and around him. - Philippians 3:12-21, from Eugene Peterson’s The Message
Paul’s advice to the troubled church at Philippi is as good today as it was 2000 years ago, for it tells us to focus on Jesus as our life’s goal. “I’m not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me...let’s keep focused on the goal, those of us who want everything God has for us... Keep track of those you see running this same course, headed for the same goal.” (vs. 12-15)
Now I don’t have it “made” and neither do you. BUT we’re on our way, and what a way it is:
“We’re citizens of high heaven! We’re awaiting the arrival of the Savior, the Master, Jesus Christ, who will ... Make us ‘beautiful and whole.” (vs. 20-21)
Life has its problems and difficulties, but our God who made us isn’t finished with us yet. He does not abandon us, but is with us - strengthening, transforming, using, and blessing us...He will and does make us “beautiful and whole.” That’s His promise.
Have company on this path; we aren’t alone. Look to the right and left - help others and be helped by them. And pause now, during Lent, to make sure of your life’s focus. What is your goal?
Dear Lord, I want all you have for me. Here is my life - take it and use it. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.