But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel. — Philippians 1:12
In 1997, President Bill Clinton presented a posthumous Medal of Honor to Mrs. Arlene Fox. Her husband, John Robert Fox, served in World War 2 in the 92nd infantry division of the US Army. Fox was from Cincinnati Ohio and found himself in Italy battling like so many others did in that day.
While battle was not uncommon for those who were involved in World War 2 in Europe, the situation that Fox found himself in was unique. Enemy soldiers found their way through lines, wearing civilian clothes to surprise allied forces. The town found itself occupied and Fox new that they were outnumbered. He began calling for artillery fire on the enemy’s position.
But as the enemy continued to progress, Fox found the artillery needed to be drawn closer and closer to his position. It wasn’t much longer until Fox gave the order. Artillery shells from his own side would rain down on his position. He would give his life for the cause, in turn giving his side a chance to overcome the enemy.
Fox could have avoided ordering the fire on his position. Instead, he gave the order. He knew that he would die as a result. But he knew it was for the cause. He knew that whatever he suffered, the cause was worth it. Even if it meant giving his own life, he was willing.
Paul knew about sacrifice for a cause as well. In this verse, he starts describing that all that he was suffering from was for the cause. He knew the risk, but he knew that the cause was worth it. He believed in it and was willing, no matter the cost.
If serving Christ were to come at a cost for you, would you be willing to suffer for the cause? What if it even meant your death? The cause of Christ is worth the sacrifice and whatever cost we might face. But are we willing to sacrifice for the cause?
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