February 8, 2005
“…in view of your participation in the gospel from the first day until now…”
Philippians 1:5
As we saw yesterday this verse helps us see that we have been given the privilege and the honor of sharing the gospel with those that God brings into our lives. But it also leads us to understand that our lives have purpose and meaning.
Because of what Christ has done for us we also get to experience what Christ wants to do through us. As we walk through life we can have great confidence because we know that God is working in us, “both to will and to work for His good pleasure.” What an incredible gift, to have purpose and meaning in life.
This morning let’s reflect upon the words of the great hymn “How Great Thou Art”, and truly give thanks that He did not spare His Son in order that we might have eternal life…and a purposeful life.
Lord my God! When I in awesome wonder
Consider all the works thy hand hath made,
I see the stars, I hear the mighty thunder,
Thy power throughout the universe displayed;
Refrain:
Then sings my soul, my Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
Then sings my soul, my Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
When through the woods and forest glades I wander
and hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees;
when I look down from lofty mountain grandeur,
and hear the brook, and feel the gentle breeze;
And when I think that God his son not sparing,
Sent him to die - I scarce can take it in,
That on the cross my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin:
When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation
And take me home- what joy shall fill my heart!
Then I shall bow in humble adoration
And there proclaim, my God, how great thou art!
As we give thanks for the purpose and hope that we have, let us be mindful of those who are walking in desperation. Let us be mindful of our neighbors who don’t know Christ and who are walking through life alone. Let us beg God to break our hearts over the spiritual condition of the “shepherdless.”
