The Mission of Trinity Lutheran Church:
Led by God, equipped as disciples through Word and Sacrament, we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to reach out with the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all.

The Vision of Trinity:
Growing in God’s Word to Share Christ’s Love

Together in God's Word

Philippians

Joyful Partners

in the

Gospel of Peace

Day 17 Tuesday, August 20 Philippians Chapter 3:7-9

7 But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.

Recently several historic Christian church buildings have burned down. The Pastor and members of these churches were interviewed and asked about the loss they had suffered. Their answers were all very similar: the building was gone but the church remains strong. They spoke of their faith and their faith family as their most precious possession not the building. This response is not one the world understands because it is focused on identity of faith in Christ.

I’m sure the Jewish leaders and the Roman world did not understand Paul’s statement in verse 8. He had possessed great power and authority in Jerusalem and had the protection of being a Roman citizen. Then God called him to be His missionary. At the writing of this letter, Paul is in prison for preaching the Gospel. Paul counts all these things as a worthwhile loss. Even as he sits in prison at the mercy of Roman law, he counts his righteousness through Christ as a bigger gain than his loss of status and freedom.  

Lord, we often struggle over material and personal obstacles that become important to us. We often put our status, our jobs, and our interests ahead of the mission you have given us. Refocus our lives on Christ and the joy of righteousness that comes from faith in God. Fill us with Your Spirit and lead us to share our joy in the Gospel.  In Jesus name, Amen.