Resurrection Strength

Philippians 3:15-16 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.

Some of our deeds are of great value, especially those done in dependence upon God for His glory and honour. Some of our deeds are worthless. They accomplish nothing of eternal value and will be quickly forgotten after we are gone.

Matt Emmons had the gold medal in sight. He was one shot away from claiming victory in the 2004 Olympic 50-meter three-position rifle event. He didn't even need a bull's-eye to win. His final shot merely needed to be on target.

Normally, the shot he made would have received a score of 8.1, more than enough for a gold medal. But in what was described as "an extremely rare mistake in elite competition," Emmons fired at the wrong target. Standing in lane two, he fired at the target in lane three. His score for a good shot at the wrong target? -- 0. Instead of a medal, Emmons ended up in eighth place. It doesn't matter how accurate you are if you are aiming at the wrong goal. 

Paul expects his readers to join him in pursuing Christ above all else. He believes so strongly that this is the correct approach that he leaves no room for excuses. If anyone did not agree, Paul's hope was that God would change his or her mind. 

These words are important for one primary reason. The goal of becoming more Christ-like does not apply only to Christian leaders.  It is to be the goal of every believer. The path Paul provided was the expectation for every Christian, in the church at Philippi, as well as our own congregations today. As believers, we are taught to consider everything in life worthless in comparison with knowing Christ and becoming more like Him. There are a variety of gifts and callings, but there is only one attitude to have when it comes to growing spiritually: pursue Christ above all else.

Father,
help us to understand the meaning
of your Son's death and resurrection,
and teach us to reflect it in our lives.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. AMEN