After this weekend, I am a bit closer to understanding how the Apostle Paul felt when he uttered 
those loving words of admiration for the believers in Philippi. Paul said, “Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.” Phil. 4:1
The source of the Apostle Paul’s joy was those disciples who had been converted under his ministry. They chose to obey the good news of the Gospel of Jesus which Paul proclaimed and as a result, they walked worthy of the holy call of God in fellowship and friendship with Paul. They yoked themselves to Paul and his evangelistic work and as a result, they served as the chief source of happiness to the Apostle by living a pure life unto God. It was Paul’s royal emblem of dignity and the prize conferred upon his victorious efforts for Grace.
I am humbled to have had the privilege of near fellowship and intimate worship with so many disciples this weekend. We have watched as the parade of Grace marched by those laureate worshippers who have been crowned with victory over failures, pains, and posits of despair. Postured in Grace, they have once and for all been removed from the mire pits to take up residence in the new found land of redemption. Yes, I heard redemption’s song ringing loudly as I witnessed each of these miracle children dancing to the rhythm of a new song!
I watched as Hope removed the surly bonds of despair. Depression was displaced by enthusiastic worship. Despondency was removed by the burden bearers of Agape love. I saw the defeated become the victorious. I watched as those once conquered and weary became champions. I witnessed some pilgrims make reconciliation with purpose and I saw the Jesus mission embraced by the hands of the hurting.
I witnessed hell trembling as relationships were mended. In one case, a joyous daughter and mother were reunited after a 17 year absence. To hear the stories, to witness the reclaimed, to see the glory of transformation – it’s priceless! My paltry speech as well as my lexicon of language constructs fail miserably in its efforts to put words to the wonder I witnessed.
Simply put, the works of Grace are just too wonderful…. All I can do is love with all compassion and admire the works of God’s hands in the lives of His children. Church of Champions and Emmaus Verse 26, you are my joy and my crown!
