Scripture
I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.

Observation
If anyone has reason to boast about their Jewish pedigree it is Paul- a pure-blood citizen of Israel, a member of the tribe of Benjamin, a Pharisee. He even persecuted the church in his zeal.

And all of his is meaningless now. His desire is to know Christ more and more. His birthright and his zealous application of the Law could not make him truly righteous, but Jesus Christ has.

Paul is aware that he hasn't yet made it, but he presses on to finish the race. He is looking forward to win the prize that is his through Christ.

Application
Our self-righteousness cuts no ice with God. Paul was the most zealous adherent of the Jewish Law, but it was worthless to him and to God.

Jesus turns our values around. When we come to Him we realise that all our own efforts of “being good” were just rubbish.

The Good News is that while I can't get to heaven on my good deeds, I can get to heaven on Jesus' good deed.

Prayer
Thank you Jesus for doing for me what I couldn't do for myself- setting me free from sin. Show me today someone who needs to hear this Good News. Amen.