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Brothers and sisters, join in imitating me, and observe those who live according to the example you have in us. For many live as enemies of the cross of Christ; I have often told you of them, and now I tell you even with tears. Their end is destruction; their god is the belly; and their glory is in their shame; their minds are set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we are expecting a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will transform the body of our humiliation that it may be conformed to the body of his glory, by the power that also enables him to make all things subject to himself. (Philippians 3:17-21)
Paul considered himself a citizen of heaven, and as a citizen of one who believed in the power and purpose of the cross, he knew that those who did not believe or did their best to keep others from believing, were "enemies of the cross of Christ." It reached a point at this writing, that he cried for them. He saw their destruction coming, and he wanted to do all he could to save them. He saw where their allegiance lay; satisfaction in all things earthly. He describes it as filling their desires of food and drink, living out in ways that brought shame to them - their minds completely on the here and now, and all for me.
Paul encourages you and me to remember we are, because of our faith in the cross of Christ, citizens of heaven, from whence shall come our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, and His return will mean a complete transformation of this body to a glorious body like His; all by the power that is Jesus'.
Some churches and schools have developed a simple Pledge to the Cross, but the best pledge is to live a life that says to God and others, "I belong to God, my citizenship is in heaven; but while here I have work to do to glorify my God and help God's children."
May it be so.
PRAYER: Loving God, bless us in this day to live a life that pledges to You our all. Help us be that blessing of invitation to those who have not yet heard, but need to hear. This I pray in Christ Jesus' precious name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
Prayer Update: Our niece Nellie Ann Rodrigue is being transferred to a rehab facility in Houston. Sad news is that her grandfather, Robert Rodrigue, Jr., passed away early this morning in Mission, Texas. Please hold the Rodrigue family in your prayers.
