The Place to Be #55

 

Philippians 3:17 Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. 18 For many, of whom I have often told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things. 20 But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.

We have seen Paul share his journey of turning from self-righteous religion to trusting in Christ. He had left behind any claim he had to being good enough for God in exchange for following Christ, the One Who had "emptied Himself" to carry out God's will in His life.  He now calls on his readers (and us) to join him and others in following Christ.  There are many who are calling out for us to follow them as they seek lives of happiness, but the way of Christ leads to true joy.  Just as Christ kept His eyes on the Prize of His Father's approval and presence, so also we should remember where our "citizenship" is, where we will find our final fulfillment; it is in God's presence with Christ and all those who have loved His appearing.