"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
In this passage in Philippians, Paul reminds
of the importance of having a goal and in particular, one that has eternal
implications. It is significant that the letter to the Philippians reveals a
tenderness and depth of friendship that is not necessarily present in his other
epistles. His goal is personal. It is
directly tied to relationships he has forged through many trials.
Three
years ago a group of men and women began a journey. They made sacrifices to
achieve a goal and along the way made rich friendships. On the last Saturday of June they graduated from
VSM Africa with a Diploma in Theology. For each of them this accomplishment is directly
tied to the work they are already committed to – transforming the lives of the
poor and broken ones.
In Africa, all theology is practical and involves
plunging one’s hands in the soil of life with the poorest of the poor.
We celebrate with these leaders who have lived lives of tenacity and perseverance to achieve something not just for themselves, but for those whom they serve.
for the kingdom,
Sue & Doug
