Last Friday our host family was invited to go to another church’s Friday night meeting, so they asked if I wanted to tag along with them. Thinking it would be a good chance to see another church and spend some time with our host family, I said yes.
Now, I had already had class earlier that day, and we had guest over in the afternoon. It had been a great day, but 80-90% of my day had already been in French. I was a little nervous that my brain would give in and stop computing even simple French sentences. (It has happened before)
We arrived a little late, so we just missed the worship portion of the meeting, but we made it in time to hear the sermon.
The theme of the theme night (and the rest of their weekend) was Philippians 4:13 “ I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
I was eager to hear the sermon, and how it would be unpacked. After reading the theme verse the pastor immediately read the previous verse for contest:
4:12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.
What? Paul has learned a secret?
“What is Paul’s secret?” The preacher asked. “Turn to Galations 2:20”
“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. “
From there he went on to remind us that we can do all things through Christ, because we have the life of Christ.
I left the meeting encouraged for two reasons. Spiritually, I was reminded of a powerful truth. Mentally, because my mind was still alert, and I was able to understand.