Our scripture this morning is Philippians 1:4-6 (NLT).
Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now. And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.
Just as Jesus prayed for His disciples, Paul prays for those who are his “partners in spreading the Good News about Christ”. We need to do the same for all who work to share God’s love – including ourselves. Praying that His kingdom may come on earth means there is plenty to do while we are here.
Paul was aware (as are most missionaries) that while he may have brought the Word to a community, it is the members of the congregations he planted that will continue to share God’s love. I’m not sure who said it but it’s true: the church is what’s left after the building burns down and the pastor leaves town.
We are the body of Christ at work here until He returns for us. We each have a mission, no matter what our vocation, to tell everyone about God’s love for us and the way He wants us to live. God doesn’t need our help, but through our outreach we become closer to each other and to Him.
Gracious God, in Your mercy Jesus came to lead us back to You. Help us to be strong in our faith and share it with the world. Amen.
