Our scripture this morning is Philippians 1:8-11.
For God is my witness that I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. And I pray this, that your love may abound even more and more in knowledge and every kind of insight so that you can decide what is best, and thus be sincere and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ to the glory and praise of God.
Paul writes to the Philippians with words of encouragement from his prison cell. He wants them to know that God’s love is there with him, even in dire circumstances, and that same love is given to them. It is their task to accept and share God’s love with everyone.
Paul went from being a persecutor of Christians to being a persecuted Christian. While we may not face the challenges he did, his lessons are applicable in our lives. He teaches us that we are precious to God and that He is always with us.
We are called to be “sincere and blameless for the day of Christ” by following the example Jesus set for us. Paul’s life was turned around by his encounter with Christ. While we may never have the same experience, we can all know Jesus and make Him part of our lives. Then we can be “filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ to the glory and praise of God”, living in Him and for Him.
Loving Lord, we are amazed that You call us back into relationship with You to be part of Your eternal plan. Bless us to grow in Your love and Your spirit to share the Good News everywhere. Amen.
