“Forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on towards the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13–14)

Dear siblings in Christ,

Last month we completed our circuit small group study of Paul’s letter to the Philippians, as part of the Methodist Church’s Bible Month. Philippians is a letter overflowing with joy, encouragement and hope that Paul writes from a place of confinement. Even though Paul is writing in very difficult circumstances, under house arrest in Rome, he continues to remind his readers that our present circumstances will never have the final word when we have our hope in Christ Jesus.

One prominent image in the letter, is Paul’s description of the Christian life as pressing on towards the goal. This is not about looking back with regret, nor resting on our past achievements, but is about continuing faithfully, one step at a time, trusting that God is leading us onwards.

The image of pressing towards the goal speaks powerfully as we watch the various team sport matches that are happening over the summer. The World Cup, being held in North America, has drawn many of us into its drama; the excitement, the disappointments, the unexpected triumphs. No tournament is won in the opening match, nor is it lost after a single setback. Teams must keep believing, adapting and moving forward together. Closer to home, Northampton has had its own brilliant reason to celebrate: Northampton Saints have won the PREM Rugby title, after their victory over Exeter in June. It was a great achievement built on many months of commitment, perseverance and resilience. Every player had a part to play in the team and together the Saints have achieved something truly remarkable.

Paul’s vision of the Church is very much like that of a sports team. We each have different gifts, experiences and roles, yet we are called to work together in Christ. The Christian life is never a solo performance. We encourage one another, bear one another’s burdens and celebrate one another’s joys as we journey together.

As we enter the summer months, some of us will look forward to holidays, family gatherings or quieter days. Others will continue caring for loved ones, working hard, or facing challenges that cannot simply be paused. Wherever we find ourselves, Paul’s words invite us to keep our eyes fixed on Christ. We need not be held captive by yesterday’s failures, nor become complacent because of yesterday’s successes. God’s grace is always calling us into a new day and a new life; reminding us of the promise made in Jesus of a place in his eternal Kingdom.

So may we continue to be a people that presses on in faith, serves with joy, welcomes generously and shares the love of Christ with everyone we meet. And may we discover, just as the ancient Philippian church did, that “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7).

Yours faithfully,

David

Revd David Speirs
Superintendent Minister, Northampton Methodist Circuit