The flow and movement of every story culminates in the final chapter. The interplay of characters and events crisscross the pages of our lives moving us through the times and seasons of the passing years.
Slowly, a realization emerges. Intuitively, we know these sentences and paragraphs will be the most important chapter of our lives. For, we are in the process of defining how our story is going to end.
In this, we enter the Apostle Paul’s experience. Writing to the church in Philippi, Paul expresses the determination to forget the things that were behind him and press on toward the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. In doing so, encourages others to join with him (Philippians 3:12b-15. NKJ).
Paul declares he is not what he once was, and he is not yet what he one day will be. He is in the process of becoming. He is continuing to invest in his spiritual development AND expresses his commitment to continue investing in the spiritual development of others.
The missionary journeys are over. He is living in a prison cell, awaiting trial.
So, how is Paul going to do this? How is Paul going to invest in his own spiritual development and that of others? In the same way as Paul lived for Jesus ever since the life-transforming encounter took place on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:3f).
The inner expanse of his soul increases as he reflects on the grace God has poured into his life. Words of praise and thanksgiving resounding within his spirit reverberate through the prison cell as he recalls the names and faces of the people the Father was pleased to bring into a personal relationship with Jesus through his service for Christ. As the recollection of those who did not receive the gift of God’s grace pass through his mind, Paul intensifies his intercession for those who have not yet received the gift of salvation.
He understands that his countenance has the power to convey the reality of God’s grace and the peace within his spirit to the soldiers guarding him. The desire of Paul’s heart is the same for them as it was for the people of Israel, prayer for their salvation (Rm. 10:1). As the Spirit provided the opportunity Paul told the story of God’s grace knowing that God gives the increase (1 Cor. 3:6). Considering Paul concludes his letter to the church at Philippi by saying, “All the saints greet you, but especially those who are of Caesar’s household” (4:22) there is reason to believe that some of soldiers guarding Paul gave their hearts to Jesus and shared the story of God’s grace with others.
Sensing the Lord’s prompting the quill glided across the parchment in harmony with the Spirit’s leading as Paul wrote letters to churches, spiritual leaders, and individuals encouraging them to live for Jesus.
May this, a compelling inner desire to encourage others to live for Jesus characterize every chapter of our lives culminating in the concluding final chapter that gives an undeniable witness to the sufficiency of God’s grace.
Gary Keisling, [email protected]
