One of the most rewarding and enjoyable activities of any parent or grandparent is to have one of their little ones climb up on their lap, look up with pleading eyes, and ask to have their favorite book read for the thousandth time. It never gets old; neither for the littles nor for the reader. I remember watching this exact phenomenon take place over and over as my father-in-law would read “The Monster At the End of This Book” to our little daughter. It was her book and she loved to have her grandpa read it to her. She would giggle and laugh at every familiar page. He would start a sentence and she would finish it. He would give her the thrill of turning each page and the joy of watching his facial expressions and hearing the exasperation in his voice as each page moved them closer to the end of the book and the monster waiting there for them. She couldn’t get enough of the story and her time with her grandpa!

Is this how we feel about the greatest story ever told? The one that changed human history and our lives as well? Does it still bring a smile to your face? Does it continue to captivate you and make you want to hear it over and over again? Hopefully, our hearts still swell inside of our chests when we see God’s Word opened and hear the gospel proclaimed. Hopefully, our childlike faith continues to make the following plea: “Tell me again of the Gospel story!” This seems to be Paul’s tone as he begins the third chapter of Philippians:

Finally, my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you. (Phil 3:1)

Previously, in chapter two, Paul had urged his readers to live a humble and selfless “gospel life” that imitates that of the Savior. It is Jesus who rescued rebellious sinners from destruction by His perfect substitutionary sacrifice. Through the righteous obedience of One, righteousness was extended to the disobedient multitude (Rom 5:12-21). “Salvation”, as it is often called, is not earned by good works or religious effort, but is received as a gift (Eph 2:8-10; Rom 6:22-23). Through repentance and faith in Jesus alone we are set free from the shackles of sin and redeemed from the curse of the law (Gal 3:13). Sinners destined for destruction can be restored to a loving relationship with their Creator and be bound for heaven. Without embracing this message we are lost and without hope. Yet by responding to Jesus’ invitation we are sure to find rest, satisfaction, and an eternal home (Matt 11:28-29; Jn 7:37; Jn 14:2). What a glorious message that is worth remembering!

With the Good News as its backdrop Paul begins chapter three by encouraging the Philippians to “rejoice in the Lord” (Phil 3:1). Why? Because the LORD is our salvation (Is 12:2; Hab 3:17-18; Titus 2:11-14). This is easy to forget in the unpredictability of life and in a world that champions self-reliance. So, Paul aims to tell his readers of the importance of the grace message that has changed their lives. Writing “the same things” to the Philippians is nothing out of character for Paul. As a matter of fact, he considers it as completely natural - a communication that is essential, even vital for the church. He asserts that “it is a safeguard for” them, protecting the gospel’s purity and the Savior’s worth. The wonder and glory of the gospel is found in the fact that it exalts Christ. His victory over sin and death is one we share (1 Cor 15:56-57; Jn 1:16; 16:33)! Repeatedly being reminded of the gospel is a discipline that is enriching to our mind and refreshing to our soul.

One of the songs that has continued to stick with me since my teenage years was a song that takes me back to my earliest exposure to the gospel. It tells the relatable story of a boy repeatedly hearing “the old, old stories” recorded in the Old Testament from his time in Sunday school to his time in high school. The songwriter emphasizes the importance of repeatedly hearing the gospel revealed through God’s grand redemptive story as it unfolds through the pages of the Scriptures, culminating in the arrival of the Messiah. “Tell me again of the Gospel story || Tell me again how the whole world was lost || How the Only Begotten with grace so amazing || Gave up His life on an old rugged cross || I don't want to forget so please, tell me again” (“Tell Me Again”, Geoff Moore).

Let’s make sure our hearts remain captivated by the wonder of gospel and the beauty of the Savior. The gospel reminds us of our helplessness, while calling to mind our “Stone of Help” (1 Sam 7:12). So, meditate on God’s grace often and daily look around you for evidences of the gospel. Also, guard it. Guard it as it guards you. Never become bored or indifferent to the Good News. Search for it when you read the Bible, as you watch someone get baptized, as you eat the bread and drink the cup, and as you lift your voice in song. Reflect and remember. May our hearts be daily moved to praise the One who is truly worthy.

Titus 3:4-7 (ESV) - “But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.”