SINCE LAST week we have started a study on the book of Philippians. This is certainly Paul's happiest letter. As we read a dozen lines or so we begin to feel the joy ourselves. This happiness is infectious. Paul does not tell us how to be happy or that we can be happy, he is simply and unmistakably happy. In today's reflection we will focus on Philippians 1:3-12 in which Paul
Expresses thanks to God
As Paul wrote to the Philippians he expressed to them that they have been a source of thanksgiving, "Every time you cross my mind, I break out in exclamations of thanks to God.' As others think about you, do they find reasons to be thankful and joyful or do they suddenly get depressed?
Expresses appreciation to the Philippians
Although he was writing from a prison cell, the apostle Paul took the time to express his appreciation to the Philippian Christians for their partnership and support in ministry. The Philippians had made a positive impression on Paul's life as Paul later wrote, "in the early days.... not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving except you only" (4:15). May I encourage you to be like the Philippian Church to joyfully offer support, financial and otherwise, to the work of the Lord even if you are the only one investing in that ministry at that time. Someday you will be rewarded.
Expresses a desire
Paul expressed one desire for the Philippians, "that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well. Learn to love appropriately. You need to use your head to test your feelings so that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush. Live a lover's life, circumspect and exemplary, a life that Jesus will be proud of; bountiful in fruits from the soul, making Jesus Christ attractive to all, getting everyone involved in the glory and praise of God" (The Message translation: Phil: 9-11)
Prayer
Dear God I give You thanks for all those persons who You have used to positively impact my life. Help me to be willing to invest in the lives of others. May my love for You flourish and may I not only love much but also love well.
Donovan Thomas is national director, Jamaica Youth for Christ..... E-mail: jamaicayfc@mail.Infochan.com
