Presence 12: Arts That Inspire Reflection & Prayersნიმუში

Eyes on the Goal

The Apostle Paul gives us a beautiful picture of humble determination in these verses from Philippians. He admits he hasn't arrived spiritually—he doesn't pretend to have mastered the journey of faith. And that honesty is refreshing. Sometimes we place pressure on ourselves to have everything figured out, to be perfect Christians. But Paul reminds us that growth in Christ is a journey, not a finish line we've already crossed.

What matters most is direction—not perfection. Paul says he’s reaching out for Christ, the very One who first reached out to him. That’s grace in motion. We don’t run toward God to earn His love; we run because we’ve already been loved.

So, today, don’t be discouraged by your flaws or missteps. Keep your eyes on the goal—Jesus. Let His calling pull you forward. You may not have it all together, but you’re moving in the right direction. And that’s enough.

Reflection:
Where have you been tempted to give up or feel like you’re not “enough”? What would it look like today to keep running—one step at a time—toward Jesus?

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for reaching out to me in love. Help me to press forward, not because I’ve arrived, but because You call me onward. Keep my eyes on You, and give me grace for the journey. Amen.

Press Play, a Poem inspired by today's bible reference by Jessica Cotten:

I awake in a whirlwind
Head spinning, mind racing,
Chewing on what-if’s.

Falling forward
Tumbling backward
Drifting in circles
Round a well-worn path.
I travel here often.
Out of breath,
Going nowhere.

Press pause.

What I know is
I don’t know much.

A glimmer of something
Bright and gentle
Catches me
Right outside my periphery.
A respite,
A steady, tranquil presence
Whose gladness is wide as skies.
I can see it,
I can see you, and I
Reach, reach, reach, and I
Take one step, and I

Lock my eyes with yours
Bind my heart to yours
Join my hope with yours,
My hands are clasped in yours
And I forget the whirlwind,
Leave behind what happened.
I run for your invitation, and I
Center myself
On one thing:
You.

Press play.