…I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:14 NIV
Pressing On
Canada and the Philippines, both staunch critics of China’s increasingly coercive actions in the disputed South China Sea, signed a key defence agreement this past November to boost combat drills and expand security alliances to deter aggression, officials said. Canada and other Western nations have been bolstering their military presence in the Indo-Pacific to help promote the rule of law and expand trade and investment in the region. The strategy dovetails with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s efforts to build defence ties with other countries to help the Philippines’ underfunded military face a militarily superior China in the disputed waters.
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Every year, along the beautiful St. Clair Parkway, a marathon is run. A church we were active in for a number of years would provide volunteers to provide water along the route. The more experienced runners didn’t even slow down as you handed them a bottle of water, like handing off the baton during a relay race. Even getting needed water didn’t slow them down. Well, Paul uses this as an analogy for the Christian life. In Philippians 3:14, he writes: “…I press on towards the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” In the marathon of the Christian life, discouragement often whispers and distractions call. When they do, Paul urges us to refocus. It’s a daily decision to move forward, even when the path is unclear. God’s grace meets us in every step, strengthening our resolve and renewing our hope. Let today be a day of pressing on with our eyes on Jesus and on the prize that await those followers of Jesus who successfully cross the finish line.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley