Thoughts for the Day

What does it matter? Just this, that Christ is proclaimed in every way, whether out of false motives or true; and in that I rejoice.

Yes, and I will continue to rejoice, for I know that through your prayers and the help of the Spirit of Jesus Christ this will result in my deliverance. It is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be put to shame in any way, but that by my speaking with all boldness, Christ will be exalted now as always in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain. If I am to live in the flesh, that means fruitful labour for me; and I do not know which I prefer. I am hard pressed between the two: my desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better; but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you. Since I am convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with all of you for your progress and joy in faith, so that I may share abundantly in your boasting in Christ Jesus when I come to you again.

(Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

The church where I worship today are going to read a play based on John Bunyan's book 'Pilgrim's Progress', which has about 70 odd characters in it. Many parts are very small (eg Villager: "There are lions on the path ahead!") so people can be two or three different characters. But I have been struck by the changes that have occurred over the last 400 years, connected to our faith. The obvious one is that many people don't have a faith to live by, and if they do, Christiana often keep it to themselves. Secondly, today humility is regarded largely as a negative or weak value, but the writer of characters like Prudence, Piety, and Charity would not have agreed. Thirdly, Bunyan's main character, Christian, learns about God and his faith through being challenged.

Paul would have fitted well inside Bunyan's book, he reminds me of the character called 'Faithful' who has his whole sight set on reaching the Heavenly City and is subsequently tried and condemned by the Judge, Lord Hategood. Paul insists that instead of hindering the spread of the news of Jesus his imprisonment has served to make it known to many others. When he appears before the Emperor he may face the death penalty, but he affirms that whether he lives or dies, he is content for he will be with Christ.

For Paul, joy is the peace that arises from making the good news of Jesus the focus of his life. It was his primary goal, and through their prayers and the "help of the Spirit", he is led to say that the Philippians should not fear their opponents, indeed suffering for their faith is a gift. He knows that God can work through any situation for His glory and the advancement of His Kingdom.

Lord Jesus Christ,
teach us how to use each of life's events
to cement our relationship with You.
May we see good come out of evil,
and the advancement of Your Kingdom
from seemingly small beginnings.
Help us to develop vibrant, living communities,
particularly in our church congregations,
and between different denominations.
Amen.