Friday February 19th, 2016 Philippians 3:17-4:1
Brothers and sisters, join in imitating me, and observe those who live according to the example you have in us. For many live as enemies of the cross of Christ; I have often told you of them, and now I tell you even with tears. (verses 17-18)
Lent is a time for reflection and Paul provides the opportunity in this passage. Every age throughout Christendom has had “enemies of the cross,” and today is no different. Across Canada, our congregations are affected by examples of this enemy through the shift in cultural attitude and lack of interest in the Christian faith.
Additionally, the addictions to food, drugs, electronics, entertainment, sports (the list can go on) are present throughout our communities and challenge our lifestyle daily. While the practice of giving something up during Lent is still practiced, the challenge Paul is putting before us as believers is to live sacrificially-all the time.
This requires us to look at the meaning of all we do in relationship, to the impact we have on those around us. We may find ourselves being enemies of the cross by the way we treat each other and the world around us.
Lord, help us to engage in ways to imitate the example of Jesus through humble and self-sacrificial living for the sake of others. Amen. — JM
Contributed by How Good is the Imitation?
Lent is a time for reflection and Paul provides the opportunity in this passage. Every age throughout Christendom has had "enemies of the cross," and today is no different. Across Canada, our congregations are affected by examples of this enemy through the shift in cultural attitude and lack of interest in the Christian faith.
Additionally, the addictions to food, drugs, electronics, entertainment, sports (the list can go on) are present throughout our communities and challenge our lifestyle daily. While the practice of giving something up during Lent is still practiced, the challenge Paul is putting before us as believers is to live sacrificially-all the time.
This requires us to look at the meaning of all we do in relationship, to the impact we have on those around us. We may find ourselves being enemies of the cross by the way we treat each other and the world around us.
