“My eager expectation and hope is that Christ will, even now, as always, be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death” (adapted from Philippians 1:20).
Was the author of these words, Paul the apostle, possessed, obsessed, or richly blessed? To carry such passion for partnership with Jesus is truly something special. It means Christ is free to show up however He pleases, in and through the life of one of His people.
What kind of interactions and experiences paved the road to such surrender, and what made Christ so precious to him? These are the behind-the-scenes moments that produced the final result. We marvel at the sacrifice, but perhaps it is better to marvel at the cause: a transformative relationship with the risen Christ.
This kind of surrender isn’t born of obligation or duty. It’s born of fascination, of being captivated by the One who is altogether lovely, altogether worthy, and altogether near.
Paul’s mission and calling were uniquely his, but the One who transformed, inspired and empowered him is available to connect with each of us today.
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