Fellowship with Jesus

Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ. (Philippians 3:8) 
 
I’ll never forget the time I had the privilege of sitting next to Billy Graham at a dinner. I was honored but also somewhat nervous about what would be appropriate to say. I thought it would be an interesting conversation starter to ask what he loved most about his years of ministry. Then I awkwardly started to suggest possible answers. Was it knowing presidents, kings, and queens? Or preaching the gospel to millions of people around the world? 
 
Before I had finished offering suggestions, Rev. Graham stopped me. Without hesitation he said, “It has been my fellowship with Jesus. To sense His presence, to glean His wisdom, to have Him guide and direct me—that has been my greatest joy.” I was instantly convicted and challenged. Convicted because I’m not sure that his answer would have been my answer, and challenged because I wanted it to be. 
 
That’s what Paul had in mind when he counted his greatest achievements to be of no worth compared to the “excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord” (Philippians 3:8). Think of how rich life would be if Jesus and our fellowship with Him was our highest pursuit. 
 
Lord, forgive me for chasing after things that matter far less than my fellowship with You. Thank You that You stand ready to enrich my life with Your presence and power. Amen. 
 
I was blessed and challenged by today’s devotion. I wanted to share it in hopes it would provoke others to stop and think about this. Is Jesus and your fellowship with Him your highest pursuit? To remain faithful where God has placed you, give Christ first place in your heart. 
 
Have a beautiful day in The Lord! 
 
Today’s Reading is Psalm 119:114