I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me
… I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Phil. 3:12–15
Gracious Jesus, I don’t know how old Paul was when he wrote these words—maybe in his sixties or seventies. But it’s obvious that with an increase in age came an increase in Gospel-astonishment. He never grew bored exploring the unsearchable riches of grace. He never “got over” belonging to you.
Jesus, give us this kind of joy and maturity in the Gospel. Sometimes we spontaneously lift our hands in worship and awe. Sometimes we wring our hands in anxious unbelief. Sometimes we reach for things that will never satisfy. But we live and die secure in your hands and written upon your heart. Thank you, Lord.
We’re grateful you’ve given us a prize to win, not a wage to earn. Hallelujah, the Gospel put an end to all spiritual merit badges, performance-based living, and fear of not doing enough. From beginning to end, we’re saved by your grace, not our grit. The pressure is off; the praise is on!
So what do we want for the rest of our days? Like Paul, we want to know you more intimately than ever, Jesus. This is the one thing we crave more than anything else—though this craving gets hijacked by lesser loves, vain pursuits, and heart-ADD.
And we want to experience more of the power of your resurrection, Jesus. This, alone, will enable us to live and love to your glory, especially when loving well involves waiting, suffering, and trusting (Phil. 3:10–11). Early in May 2020, free us from lesser things, smaller dreams, and pesky fears. So very Amen we pray, in your peerless and priceless name.