Second Sunday in Lent: Epistle, Philippians 3:17-4:1        

Philippians 3:17-4:1

If you love to read then chances are you love words that make reading possible. And poetry is the place where most of those magical uses of words appear. It's a genre that lends itself to it. But here in one of Paul’s epistles we see that same type of magic and it occurs in a section of instruction, what would be termed a “didactic” passage.

The end of Philippians 3 is pointing out the heart and practice of those devoid of the gospel of Christ. Paul sums it up saying, “ … with their minds set on earthly things” (v. 17b). Then the beautiful turn occurs, “But our citizenship is in heaven” (4:1). He goes on moving us toward Lent’s second Sunday by ending where Lent ends: in the physical resurrection of Christ. Brilliant. And if you will take the time to read this passage you will find that the language used to describe the Christian’s hope is lovely indeed.

Focusing on Jesus is a great strategy for Lent. While there are times for somber reflection and prayers of repentance, we should not forget the focus in this season is the same as in any found in the church year: Jesus, Jesus, and more Jesus. And what he has promised his children is no mere “replacement” for heart attachments to the things of this world. It’s an obliteration of them. Our rising from the grave by the express intent and power of Christ holds for God’s Christians treasures and delights beyond our ability to consider. And the Holy Spirit has inspired Paul here to write words that not only turn a beautiful phrase, but an entire destiny. God be praised!