The Seventh Sunday after Epiphany (NTA)

Philippians 2:12-18

¹² Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, ¹³ for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.

¹⁴ Do all things without grumbling or disputing, ¹⁵ that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, ¹⁶ holding fast to the word of life, so that in the day of Christ I may be proud that I did not run in vain or labor in vain. ¹⁷ Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all. ¹⁸ Likewise you also should be glad and rejoice with me.

Jesus was setting his eyes toward death. He knew that his blood would be shed for the forgiveness of your sin. Elijah saw his end coming. He might not have seen a fiery chariot in his future, certainly saw his departure from this mortal life. St Paul now looks to his own death in Rome. He desires to leave them with good cheer and words of hope.

It is up to each of us to work out our salvation. This does not mean you can work hard enough and earn your own salvation. But choose how you will work out your salvation. Is it dependent upon Christ and pure grace? Or is it dependent on your emotions? Or is it dependent upon your actions, or any "I" statement?

Hold fast to the word of life. Hold fast to the robe of Christ. Hold fast to the grace of God. God has had mercy upon you. He has forgiven you all your sin. He has claimed you to be his own. He even became the first fruit of your bodily resurrection. He is your life!