Paul’s Heart

Read: Philippians 1:12-21

With all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. — Philippians 1:20

Bible in a year: Job 14-16; Acts 9:22-43

According to a long-held Christian tradition, the apostle Paul was beheaded and buried in Rome around 67AD. In 2009, scientists conducted carbon dating tests on what many believe to be his remains. While these tests on the bone fragments confirmed that they date from the first or second century, positive identification remains in question. But no matter where Paul’s bones rest, his heart lives on through his letters in the New Testament.

While imprisoned in Rome, Paul wrote to the followers of Jesus in Philippi about his purpose in life. He spoke of his “earnest expectation and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain” (Phil. 1:20-21).

As we read Paul’s words today, they challenge us to examine our own hearts. Are we as passionate as he was about Jesus Christ? Is it our goal to honour Him in our everyday life?

Long after we’re gone, those who knew us will remember our hearts. May we, like Paul, create a legacy of hope and encouragement centered around Jesus Christ. — David C. McCasland

Lord, I would serve You day by day,
Doing Your will, let come what may;
Keep my heart faithful, strong, and true,
Always to trust and honor You. — Hess

We are Christ’s “letters of recommendation” to all who read our lives.

PRAISE GOD
BLESSED BE THE ONE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD