Paul writes in Philippians 3:12-14: “Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect,
but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Brothers and
sisters, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies
behind and straining toward what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the
upward call of God in Christ Jesus”.
There is a Precious Moments cross stitch picture of a young boy running, his hair blowing back
and a smile on his face. Alongside him is his dog, running, with his ears back and tail straight up.
In front of them are the words “Press On.” When my boys where young, I hung this up in their
room, reminding them to keep pressing on toward Jesus no matter what happens in life.
I remember events in my life that needed pressing on: Math was a difficult subject in school
until I was in college, and I aced a math test!
One winter, my family was constantly ill, until my doctor suggested using paper cups. We kept
pressing on and became well. I still use them today. Relationships in my life have needed
pressing on as they evolve and change.
Our life is like that of a runner. In order to run a steady race, one needs properly fitted shoes for
a firm foundation that supports the body while running. Clothing that is well fitted and
lightweight and a steady pace, bringing the runner to their goal and the prize. We can liken the
shoes to the firm foundation we have in Jesus Christ, the clothing to God’s Word that helps us
breath and the steady pace which culminates in reaching the goal for the prize of our arrival
home with Jesus.
As you run this race of life, keep your eyes on Jesus. Don’t look back as it will slow you down.
Let go of all that is weighing you down and stay steady as you ‘press on toward the goal for the
prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus’.
Chaplain Val