Kickshaw (Philippians 3:1-14)

Good morning ladies,

The word of the day is “kickshaw.”  One of my favorite chapters in the book of Philippians (my favrit NT book) is the third. It does not get a ton of play because of the chapter it precedes. But Paul said some pretty outrageous comments here. The following verse used an actual cuss word of his day, and the peeps had to be totally astonished to hear him say it. But, he needed to get his point across as to why he followed Christ and believed in the Gospel.

“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...” ~Phil. 3:8

The word "garbage" has been inserted here by English scholars to replace a more colorful word that we would use today.  I will let your imagination take you there for explanation.  My question is: what are the important things in your life… what do you value most?  My prayer is that you would take Paul's advice here, which is to realize everything in your life doesn't mean very much, and is pretty trifle in comparison to what Jesus has commanded to do in following him.  Take some time today and ask yourself what would be like to lose everything for the sake of your relationship with Jesus.  He did it for us, and asks us to do the same.

Praying for you,

MO

Allocution (Matthew 5:1-7:29)

Good morning ladies,

The word of the day is “allocution.” Every few years we have the opportunity to hear the inauguration speech of either a new or current president. These are known as some of the most listened to speeches by people from not only our country, but all over the world. On the morning of this year's presidential inauguration I am inclined to think of one of the greatest speeches ever given. The Sermon on the Mount was given by Jesus a couple thousand years ago, yet it still resonates with people today. Even though most of us would not even realize it, people often use parts from the Sermon on the Mount in present day speeches and every-day conversations. Jesus was speaking to a crowd of people, including disciples, and others who chose to follow him. He chose his words carefully, knowing that these words should and would resonate with those who heard.

“You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled under foot. “You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”

~Matt 5:13-16

My question is: what are some of the greatest speeches that you have ever heard? In all of my years of ministry I have heard a ton of great speeches, sermons, and other allocutions. And, I have to say that I am really proud that my Savior gave perhaps the most moving challenge of all with the Sermon on the Mount. My prayer is that each of you takes heed to each section of this encouragement by Jesus. Take time today to read through this particular sermon, and give thanks for a God who reaches out to love us continually.

Praying for you,

mo

Trundle (Philippians 1:12-20)

Good morning ladies,

The word of the day is "trundle.” So many times today we believe that we have life pretty tough. I am not saying this is not the case, but we must take things and put them in perspective. The apostle Paul lived his life not knowing what would happen from one day to the next. He was always up against some kind of opposition. He did not have to deal with all of this in his life. When he chose to follow Christ he pretty much gave up his standing in the community for reasons of the gospel. The best part about all of this is that he did not expect anybody to feel sorry for him. He knew that the advancement of the gospel was the most important aspect of his life. In this passage today, we see Paul in chains still rejoicing, knowing that the gospel was continuing in this advancement.

“But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ,what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.”

~Phil. 1:18-19

My question is: when considering the advancement of the gospel, where is that on your priority list? I know that there are a ton of things that pull at your time. Whether it is school, work, family, sports, or other commitments that cause you to stress out, where does advancing the Gospel fall within your set of important stuff? My prayer is that you continue to evaluate and reevaluate the importance of advancing God's gospel, not just for the long haul of your life but in the short term as well.  The advancement of the Gospel will trundle, or roll on, with or without us.  I only hope that each of us can be a part of the Lord’s work in doing so.

Praying for you,

Mo