March 8

Like a Freight Train

But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:13, 14).

Scripture: Philippians 3:7-16

Song: “Higher Ground”

Among my treasured possessions is a letter from my grandson Elijah, written when he was 20 years old. I was attending a women’s retreat, and my sponsor had asked him and several other people to write words of encouragement to me. Their cards and letters were presented as a surprise on the closing day.

Things change as we get older, and I had been silently struggling with the thought that aging might make me less valuable to God and His kingdom. The God-who-hears sent me a word through His son.

Here’s part of what Elijah wrote to me: “The way I see it is that one of your tasks is to lead the new generation. This doesn’t mean slowing down; this doesn’t mean taking it easy . . . there is not a sports team on the planet that takes it easy in the last quarter . . . No baseball player walks from third base to home: they go in hot and like a freight train . . . You are much needed here, with your family, and leading the next generation of Christ’s followers.”

Press on! Like a freight train.

Lord God, Your power and love are not bound by mortal time and age. May our eagerness to win the prize increase as we near the goal and motivate us to press on toward You with greater passion and vigor each day. In Christ’s name. Amen