Scripture

“I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the sharing of his sufferings by becoming like him in his death.” Philippians 3:10

Reflections

The Apostle Paul wrote that he wanted to “share in Christ’s sufferings” and become like him “in his death”.  Was he crazy?

Who in their right mind would desire to be crucified?  What would possess one to think such a thing?  Crucifixion was a torturous, cruel, and inhumane treatment reserved for the worst of the worst criminals.  It would never be considered acceptable in our culture.

But that didn’t stop Paul.  We read about how Paul suffered in 2 Corinthians 11, “Five times I have received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one.  Three times I was beaten with rods.  Once I received a stoning.  Three times I was shipwrecked; for a night and a day I was adrift at sea; on frequent journeys, in danger from rivers, danger from bandits, danger from my own people, danger from Gentiles, danger in the city, danger in the wilderness, danger at sea, danger from false brothers and sisters; in toil and hardship, through many a sleepless night, hungry and thirsty, often without food, cold and naked.  ...”  And he still continued!

Paul knew what comes from that kind of sacrifice.  Jesus died on the cross and transformed our lives forever.  The world was changed forever.  What could be more valuable than that?

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for your suffering on my behalf in order that I might know the extent of your love for me.  Help me to be willing to give of myself for the sake of others as well.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: Philippians 3:4b-14