Philippians 3:20–21
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.
Paul reminds those of us who follow JESUS that we have a better citizenship! One that gives us the greater privilege of standing before the KING of Kings and LORD for Lords. The one who has the power not just over life and death, but power to grant eternal life. We’ll have new transformed bodies that will be like the risen body of JESUS. Every tear will be wiped away and all the sad things will no longer be true. There will be no more death, no more war, no more famine or disease. All things will be as they should be.
Paul had the right to see the emperor because he was a Roman citizen. However, he was looking past that earthly citizenship to one far greater. He had the right to see JESUS because he was a citizen of Heaven. Paul can have the most challenging life here; mocked, persecuted, ridiculed, etc.. The emperor could order him killed, but JESUS could raise him from the dead. Paul served an eternal kING with real power.
As the followers of JESUS, we too are gifted with two kinds of citizenship: an earthly one and a heavenly one. We humbly submit and surrender to the LORD everything that pertains to being an earthly citizen. It’s the only way to survive the hostile environment of life on this planet. The Bible says, “In Him we live and move and have our being.” Our earthly life will be most fruitful and productive when the FATHER’s will on earth is done as it is in heaven. We must never lose sight of the eternal truth that as children of GOD, this earth is not our permanent home. We are foreigners, pilgrims, sojourners on our way to our eternal home in Heaven! Let’s safeguard that which GOD’s SPIRIT has blessed us with by living a life with a 20/20 vision for the glory and honor of GOD and the LORD JESUS CHRIST!
Prayer:
Dear GOD, thank You for waking me up this morning and blessing me with a new day and the freshness of life. My the HOLY SPIRIT guide and lead me each new day to honor You and CHRIST with all that You’ve given me, especially Your holy presence in my life. I pray for another day and week ahead with confidence that You’ve blessed me with a 20/20 vision.
In the great and mighty Name of JESUS. Amen!
Praying For You,
Pastor Wally & Sister Mattie