PostScript: What is our goal?
Paul presses on towards the goal (Philippians 3.14) – but what is our goal?
Context
Reflection
Paul had known many pressures in his life and was writing to the Philippians from prison, and yet he did not give up or give in. That is the context in which he speaks of pressing on towards his goal. Covid19 has affected many people’s goals, in different ways, and it is important that we should be aware of this and respond with sensitivity. The Duchess of Cornwall talks of her loneliness and vulnerability when she self-isolated. No one is immune from the impact of coronavirus, and this is a time when we need to see each other’s needs and work together.
The Philippian Church had heard of Paul’s plight and sent him a love gift. He is clearly helped financially by this and also encouraged. Such love is what enables him to press on towards the goal. The financial position of English football clubs ranges across a very wide spectrum. The request from the lower leagues to the more wealthy clubs is an example that can be followed in other situations, especially at this time when some of the divisions in society appear in danger of widening.
Young people losing hope presents an enormous challenge to the Church and our response must be sensitive. It is too easy simply to encourage them to trust in God. Now is a time for intergenerational conversation where both fulfilled hopes and shattered dreams can be shared – as Paul sought to do in his letters. ‘Silver Sunday’ aims to value older people and affirm that they have an important role in society today. Here is an opportunity to share together something of goals that are being pressed towards and goals which have been achieved. The Duchess of Cornwall urges people to break the silence of loneliness. This is a challenging and worthwhile goal which the Philippian Church were trying to achieve in sending their letter and gift to Paul.
In all of this, the example of Paul can be helpful. He knew good and bad times, yet he pressed on single-mindedly. He was able to do so because he knew what his goal was; he knew who could help him achieve it; and he knew that his goal was in accordance with God’s plans and purposes – and he was inspired by the reward that he knew he would receive. The goal can be achieved by offering help to those who are struggling; seeking to encourage those on the point of giving up; and imaginatively using the resources which God has made available.
Prayer
For those seeking to offer compassion and care,
gracious God:
help them achieve their goal.
For those researching a vaccine for coronavirus,
gracious God:
help them achieve their goal.
For those seeking wisdom in leadership of others,
gracious God:
help them achieve their goal.
For those with personal targets of any sort,
gracious God:
help them achieve their goal.
In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Questions
- What is the goal that you are pressing towards and has it changed as a result of the pandemic?
- How does a relationship with Christ enable you to press on to reach the goal?
- Are there ways in which you can help other people to reach their goal?
All-age activity
Have a ‘good news time’ where everyone is entitled and invited to say a sentence or two about something they have recently achieved. After each contribution everyone should shout ‘goal’ and clap three times.
Young people
Many young people are still facing disruption to their education. Ask about goals and ambitions and how they see their future panning out. Give an opportunity to share and if appropriate to moan. Remind them of some of the difficulties that Paul faced and tell them that God will guide and support them. Finish by praying for each group member in turn.
Rev Stuart Wild is a Methodist Superintendent Minister in Lytham St Annes in Lancashire.
KEY: icon indicates ways to connect faith with everyday life
Hypertext links to other websites are for the convenience of users only and do not constitute any endorsement or authorisation by ROOTS for Churches Ltd.
PostScript is also available via Twitter and facebook.
ROOTS publishes weekly lectionary-based worship and learning resources online and in two magazines. FIND OUT MORE.