February 3-Awards

Scripture Lesson: Philippians 3:12-14

Today is the birthday of former Red Sox and Angel great, Fred Lynn. Lynn in 1975 had one of the greatest seasons in baseball history. He was named Associated Press Athlete of the Year, Gold Glove winner, American League MVP and Rookie of the Year, Sporting News Player and Rookie of the Year. Lynn hit .331 with 21 HRs, 105 RBIs, on base percentage of .401, scored 103 runs with 175 hits leading the Red Sox to the American League pennant. For a rookie to receive all those awards was unheard of before or since.

Paul writes to the Church at Philippi in our lesson today about the only award that really matters. Paul forgetting what has happened and looking forward to what will happens strives to win the prize which God has called him…heaven. When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior, it is the beginning of a lifelong journey with Him that ends in heaven. Paul writes this letter while in prison in Rome. Since the day of his salvation, Paul has lived with heaven ahead as the goal, living each day to the max for God. What a great example for us. It doesn’t matter what awards we receive in this world, it only matters what we are doing on our journey to heaven, serving God!

1. How does it feel to be recognized for something you have accomplished?
2. What are you accomplishing for God?
3. How do we live our lives with heaven in mind?

Fred Lynn had an amazing season in 1975. Just think what an amazing year we can have if we strive to serve God each day with heaven in mind!