As I have been reflecting on the the Word taught this past weekend (Phil. 2:14-18), I am rejoicing because I do believe we are really starting to get it.  I mean we are really starting to see and understand the difference the gospel makes.  We are not all the way there, but we are getting it.  If someone were to ask me how the church plant is going, today I would be inclined to say, “Well, the gospel is real and I think we are understanding it better.”  I would say, “Look at our people.  Watch them as they love the gospel and serve each other.  See Ruth as she opens her hom for gospel fellowship early on a Saturday morning.  Look at BJ as he worked to organize the logistics of the preview service.  See the men as they rise up extra early on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays so they can fellowship and encourage one another.  Watch Christy as she volunteers to teach the children and thus allow Adriane to sit in Bible Study.  See Sharon as she faithfully makes our deposits and keeps track of our giving.  Listen to Stephen as he enthusiastically makes sure we stay on vision.  Listen to Scott as he thanks God for our emphasis on the gospel for all of life.  Talk to our children as they rejoice to learn the catechisms from Kassidy and Adriane.  And the list could go on and on.

As a church plant, I find it easy to get busy and to work because there is so much that needs to be done.  And as we are fond of saying, “Somebody’s gotta do it.”  However, I would not want us to do anything simply because it needed to be done.  Nor would I hope our motivation would be to receive the praise and appreciation of people or to have our name mentioned in a blog post.  No.  I pray that our primary motive for service is the gospel.  I pray that our Lord’s service to us has made such an impact on our lives that we can not help but serve in hopes that others would see the gospel through us and desire to worship and serve Christ as well. 

I do believe we are getting it.  I hope to have my joy to overflowing as we continue to serve and get it more and more together.  As the Apostle Paul said to the Philippians, so I say to you, “I am glad and rejoice with you all.  Likewise, you also should be glad and rejoice with me” (Phil. 2:18).  Why?  Because by God’s grace we are getting it!