May 10 Divine Service

Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Jesus Christ.

Philippians 3:13-14

Where are we in the Bible? 

Apostle Paul writes to the believers in Philippi while in prison. This was one of the first Christian congregations in Europe, established during his missionary journeys (Acts 16), and his tone throughout the letter is warm, personal, and encouraging.

In chapter 3, however, Paul becomes more direct, warning against placing confidence in religious achievements or outward identity. He reflects on his own past status and makes clear that none of it compares to knowing Christ. Instead, righteousness comes through faith. This leads to his image of the Christian life as a race—letting go of what is behind and pressing forward toward the goal, with hearts set not on earthly things, but on our heavenly calling.

Summary

The upward call comes from God and is an invitation into eternal life - shaping our present life and pointing to our future hope of full fellowship with Him. We press toward this goal with perseverance, fixing our eyes on Jesus and allowing His nature to transform us, running the race with faithfulness and endurance, grounded in the hope of the resurrection. As we remain focused on this goal, we release past burdens and resist present distractions, committing ourselves to complete the race with confidence, knowing that pursuing Christ is never in vain.

Foundational readings:

Scripture Philippians 3:12-16

Catechism 3.1.8

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