Saturday after the Festival of the Ascension of our Lord
Posted on May 11, 2024 by under
Scripture: Philippians 3:17-21 (NKJV)
3:17 Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern. 18 For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame—who set their mind on earthly things. 20 For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.
Devotion
It has been said there is nothing easier than becoming a Christian, and nothing harder than remaining one. All of us know people who have succumbed to the ways of the world. We are also aware that we ourselves are bombarded with temptation to slip from the faith. That is why Paul admonishes us with these words: “Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern. For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame—who set their mind on earthly things.”
How do we remain secure in God’s arms? Remain in God’s Word and His Church, that we may receive the divine fuel that is necessary to sustain us in the true Faith. Jesus Himself said: “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32). Always take to heart the important words your pastor says as he dismisses you from the Communion rail: “This true Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen and preserve you in the true faith unto life everlasting.”
Collect: Grant, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, that like as we do believe Thine Only-begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, to have ascended into the heavens, so may we also in heart and mind thither ascend, and with Him continually dwell, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, ever One God, world without end. Amen.
Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
