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So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. … Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me. (Philippians 2:1-4, 14-18)
Paul is looking forward to the day Jesus returns—and why? So that he can be proud of the Christians he has taught and evangelized and cared for, loving them like his own children. He is hoping for the same thing my own missionary family hopes for—that when Jesus comes, and all His people stand before Him rejoicing, we too may stand among the Christians we have helped to be born into His family—the people who have come to faith because the Holy Spirit worked through us.
That’s hard work! It involves a lot of difficult days and sleepless nights. Some people reject the Gospel as soon as they hear it. Others believe for a while, but then fall away. There are fights in the church and conflicts between fellow Christians, especially those who are immature and show it through grumbling and selfish ambition. At times like those, we grieve. Jesus’ coming seems so far away!
And yet, we live in hope—because we know that Jesus gave His life for these people we love, and He rose from the dead and intercedes for us right now at the right hand of God the Father. He will certainly finish the work He has begun! And He has given His Holy Spirit so that all of His people, mature and newborn, may trust in Him and grow up in love for each other.
Who is watching over you with hope? And who are you watching over, as a parent or teacher or leader?
WE PRAY: Dear Lord, give us Your Spirit’s help so that we can grow up in Your love, and bring us all safely to stand before You in joy when You return. Amen.
This Daily Devotion was written by Dr. Kari Vo.
Reflection Questions:
- How did you come to faith? Thank God for whoever baptized you and taught you the Gospel.
- Who has been caring for you while you grow in faith? Pray for them as well.
- Who are you caring for and praying for right now? Who could you tell about Jesus, with the Spirit’s help?
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