Philippians 3:8

Several years ago I came across a newspaper article that inspired me and spoke to my heart. I have kept this story safely secured in my bible as a reminder of one man’s courageous faith. I was drawn to this story by reading the headline of a man who tragically died in an elevator accident. But it was the final sentence of the article that spoke to my heart. With Easter almost here, and as I reflect on all that Jesus did for me on that cross, I am reminded of this man’s faith. So I wanted to share his story with you.

Hitoshi Nikaidoh age 35 was working as a doctor at hospital in Houston, he entered an elevator to make his rounds one morning. Just as he was stepping in the elevator, the door suddenly closed on him, pinning his shoulders. As the elevator began to rise Mr. Nikaidoh was trapped and he died instantly.

As I read this story several years ago, I thought to myself, how sad. This guy was just going about his daily job and was killed doing something so innocent as getting in an elevator.

The final paragraph though was the part that really moved me, and inspired my faith. The article quoted a hospital spokesperson, speaking about Mr. Nikaidoh, saying that on a recent job application, he wrote, ” he enjoyed activities such as running, cooking, reading, being outdoors, but, all of these activities pale in comparison to my devoted pursuit of a more intimate relationship with my Lord, Jesus.”

He wrote that on his job application at a major hospital!!! Talk about a man who died with the right priorities in life.

All of those activities pale in comparison to a more devoted pursuit of a more intimate relationship with Jesus……Wow! I know I struggle with the activities and things of this world that often sway me from a more intimate relationship with Jesus. But this man had the zeal and passion to daily lay aside the things of this world and pursue Christ.

It’s a glorious reminder to me of a man who lived out of Philippians, 3:7-8.

~But whatever was to my profit, I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost ALL things. I consider them rubbish that I may gain Christ.~

~He humbled Himself and became obedient to death-even death on a cross!
Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name,that at the name of JESUS every knee should bow in heaven and on earth and under the earth,and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord….~ Philippians 2: 8b-11

Also check out a new blogger I met through the blog party. She has an excellent post with similar thoughts to this one, and posted the same verse. Please visit Melanie @ The Fruit of the Spirit.