pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

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God’s Upward Call

Reading: Philippians 3:4-14

Philippians 4:14 – “The goal I pursue is the prize of God’s upward call in Christ Jesus.”

Photo credit: Pablo Heimplatz

Our Epistle reading begins with a list of accolades and accomplishments. These are the titles and things that would impress the religious people of Paul’s day. Modernizing the list, it might read: “I’m a Christian… an American… an elder at my church… I do no wrong…” Outside the church, one might say, “I’m a billionaire… I’m the CEO of ___… I’m an All-Star… I won a Grammy…” These status symbols matter in certain circles. But for Paul, when Jesus found him, he “wrote them off as a loss for the sake of Christ.” As Paul walked with Jesus, the things of this world became unimportant. Paul’s identity was in Christ.

Paul came to understand that because Christ was in him, his righteousness was “not my own.” It had been before. In his old life, Paul knew an outward righteousness based upon what he did. In and with Jesus, Paul came to know an inward righteousness – one based on faith alone. Because it is grounded in Christ’s faithfulness, this inward righteousness is not tied to the things of this world. With Christ in his heart, Paul strove to live in right relationships with God and with his fellow human beings. Through faith in Christ, we can strive to live this way too.

In the last few verses, Paul lifts his spirit and his thoughts heavenward. First recognizing that he has not yet “been perfected,” Paul declares that he is still pursuing eternal life. Forgetting his past, Paul looks forward and upward. In verse 14 we read, “The goal I pursue is the prize of God’s upward call in Christ Jesus.” Living faithfully day by day, loving God and neighbor, trusting in the power of Jesus Christ, Paul presses on for the prize: perfect fellowship with Jesus in glory. Day by day, may we press on for the prize.

Prayer: Lord God, through the power of your Holy Spirit in us, lead and guide us to live a good and just and righteous life. Fill us with your love so that love guides all of our thoughts, words, and actions. As we walk in faith each day, drawing ever closer to eternal glory, use our life and witness to bring more of heaven to earth. Amen.


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Closer to God, Closer to One Another

Reading: Exodus 20:7-9

Exodus 20:7 – “Do not use the Lord your God’s name as if it were of no significance.”

Photo credit: Aaron Burden

Turning to the third and fourth commandment today, we begin with this: “Do not use the Lord your God’s name as if it were of no significance.” The more familiar translation warns us against using God’s name “in vain.” Along these lines, we can use God’s name in an inappropriate way when we hit our thumb with a hammer or when someone cuts us off in traffic. A similar misuse can slip right out when we’re really angry or frustrated. I like today’s translation because it also reminds me that I can also use God’s name in other ways that are not honoring to God. For example, a phrase like “I swear to God” falls into this category.

But the greatest and most significant way that we misuse the name of God is when we put our name in the place of God’s name. When I assume that I am in control or when I am sure that I know what is right, I’m taking a place that is not mine to take. When I judge or think others are less than or are unworthy, I am going where I should not go. When and how do you act like God or take a role that is God’s to fill?

The fourth commandment helps us in this struggle. (And in our struggles with 1, 2, and 5-10!) Number four instructs us to set a day aside for God. The Sabbath is to be a day of rest and worship, of reflection and renewal. Setting aside a day for God provides time for thanksgiving and for introspection. The weekly practice of evaluating our walk with God and with one another is a vital tool for growing in our relationships with God and with one another. Whether it is Sunday or another day, may we use our holy day to draw closer to God and, in turn, closer to one another.

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for the reminder of who you are and of who we are not. As we remember, may our humility grow and may our selfishness decrease. Turn us to you on a regular basis, speaking into our heart by the power of the Holy Spirit. Through the Spirit’s power, encourage us and convict us, lift us up and refine us. In all of these ways, may our lives then bring you all the glory. Amen.