The words, 'I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ...' Those words hit hard as I read them again.
Several years ago we experienced a fire in our apartment building that destroyed 100% of our neighbors goods and over 50% of our own.
We experienced loss of belongings, memories, overall a sense of safety. My wife and I along with our one year old were at a loss.
Our ministry director, the director of the camp where this took place, was eternally gracious. Our church body was infinitely gracious as well. Friends were equally gracious. Families were a blessing. Individuals we hardly knew were like shining stars.
However, one young lady in particular comes to mind always when reading the above passage. A twenty-something single woman, having been saving for a vacation the sum of around $600 chose to consider her vacation a loss compared to loving Christ.
The Spirit prompted her to think, 'How can I save for vacation when they don't even have a place to call home?' So her vacation fund became our rebuilding fund.
Knowing Christ is knowing the body. Her act of devotion and compassion in response to the Spirit will always goad me into going to Jesus with open hands and returning to His people with helping hands. I came into the world naked and I will leave that way...nothing is mine.
Everything is a total loss, burned in fire, compared to knowing Christ.
Everything is a total loss, burned in fire, compared to knowing Christ.
Philippians 3:7-14