Philippians 1:12-18 (Personal Rendering)

Friends, please know that where I am and what has happened to me-- this ugly string of events has a more important subplot than what the cold hard facts tell. Yes, my stuggle looks deblilitating, even parylizing. That’s obvious. But it is advancing the truth of Christ in ways I could never have schemed. The results are astounding. Everyone from “Rome’s finest” to the lines of Roman royalty is aware that I’ve been arrested by Jesus himself and not just mere mortals. And my troubles have opened the mouths of timid believers who are doing more damage to darkness than I could have ever imagined.

Even though I’m here I know there are others. Some speak from a heart of God-driven compassion.Some people are shouting the name of Jesus for selfish motives, some to get ahead, some to look powerful, and to get the upperhand spiritually.  Some realize that I’m out of sight to defend the gospel that is on the rise and that’s why they speak out. And some use the gospel to stir up trouble knowing that I can’t lift a finger to stop them. But I can honestly say, “Go ahead. I don’t care what the motives are!" I’m just glad His name is getting publicty. I’m thrilled to no end that this good news is spreading no matter what or who is speaking it. I’m way beyond the oneupmanship of politics.