Week Two: Expand – Leaning Into What We Don’t Yet Know
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.
Philippians 3:13
By John Baxter
Paul points out here and elsewhere in his letters, Christ is the goal and God is leading us there! So, what does that mean for us?
As I studied this verse in its various interpretations, it became clearer that we need to focus and be even more flexible for what is to come. The pandemic forced flexibility.
I was part of a leadership team planning an Army reunion. We spent 16 months in preparation and then - boom - the lockdown. The disappointment was great as we are all in our mid-seventies and future events seem unlikely. While in-person events may not happen, a weekly Zoom happy hour has expanded friendships way beyond what a three-day event would have done. It has been a blessing.
As one who has moved into the latter stage of his life, there are reflections on what a great life it has been to this point: family, friends, church, serving, and more. The difficult personal things of the past have mostly faded.
Here we are in 2021 beginning a second year of a period that is still extraordinarily difficult for the entire world. So, in not looking back, what are we looking forward to? In my earthly view, seeing our children and granddaughters, visiting friends, and continuing world travel are important. Somehow it will be different, and we must embrace what is ahead because we will never be back to the way it was.
So how am I being led to Jesus?
While my faith has been strengthened over the years through mission trips and local service, is that period over? What is doable going forward? While the hands-on things may not be the same, hopefully prayer and Bible study will play a role in understanding where God will lead me. Our challenge: Will I be ready to follow? Will you?
