December 9th - Reflection

Philippians 3:12-16 (NRSV)
The prize of God's call in Christ

Not that I have already obtained this or have already reached the goal; but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Beloved, I do not consider that I have made it my own; but this one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus. Let those of us then who are mature be of the same mind; and if you think differently about anything, this too God will reveal to you. Only let us hold fast to what we have attained.

Reflection
This passage reminds me of a scene in life years ago. My sister Becky was playing co-ed softball with the church team. We were all a little too far out of shape and maybe a little too old for softball to begin with, especially Becky.

Becky hit the ball somewhere and was running towards first base. You would definitely say she was "straining to what lies ahead." As Becky was pressing on toward the goal of first base for the prize of being called safe, her head poked out in front of the rest of her body. Becky's neck stretched forward and with her head on top of her neck, her body was being left behind to the degree that she became top heavy not only because of her head but also due to other physical aspects as well. Becky went down! Becky's head skipped along the first base line as the rest of her body followed and crumpled to the dirt behind.

Of course all of the fans rushed to Becky's rescue, while her family looked on and laughed.

But this did demonstrate the point Paul is making in these verses. Even in our imperfect state, we are determined to make to towards that goal. We just can't do it alone. We need Christ, but that does not deter us from straining towards that wonderful and eternal sight God has set for us and the prize that is waiting there. As we fall, we get up and keep towards that goal. I'm not so sure that Becky didn't finish her run to first base after getting up. Way to go! Thanks be to God!

Prayer
Lord, may Billy follow Becky and strain towards that goal you have set for all of us... today... tomorrow... and forever. --- Amen