Choose Joyনমুনা

DAY 32 - COMPLETE JOY

Reflection: The unity of Christians is highly valued in the Scriptures. And for Paul, the unity of the believers in Philippi was especially precious to him. Having helped start the church on his second ministry journey, the Philippians had been particularly faithful supporters, and no doubt held a special place in his heart.

They are experiencing opposition, as did all of the early churches, so he’s quick to emphasise joy. When he prays for the Philippians, he prays with joy (1:4). When he concludes he should continue in his earthly life longer, it’s for their ‘progress and joy’ (1:25). When he decides to send back Epaphroditus to them, they are urged to welcome him with ‘great joy’ (2:29). And finally, in his closing appeal, he identifies the Philippian church as his ‘joy and crown’ (4:1).

In fact it’s in this final appeal we learn that two of his valued supporters are at odds, and divided, perhaps with the pressure of persecution causing relationships to buckle. Which is why out of all the joy identified in Philippians, there is only one thing that makes Paul’s joy complete.

It is the joy of the church being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and mind. Whatever the encouragement, comfort, tenderness, and compassion we might receive through Jesus, our joy is made whole when the church is whole.

Choose joy: Pray for the unity of believers around the globe. Where possible, mend or improve relationships in your own church sphere.