Priceless Visits
Priceless Visits
Because of Jesus and all he is and has done for us, Paul urges his readers to work out the grace within us – to live like we now are – as saints! And as we do that we find actually that it is God who is working in us.
Just as Jane challenged on us on Sunday to step out and stand out (Acts 2), Paul wants us to stand out in our society by being a people who don’t grumble! That shows us blameless and innocent, shining like stars in the world, holding fast to the faith. The antidote to being a grumbler is to be thankful – something we see much of in Paul’s writings. Be grateful! There is so much for us to be thankful for!
Paul hopes to send Timothy and Epaphroditus to visit the Philippians. Visiting the church is priceless in value. The mutual encouragement that comes from these visits is priceless. Please do read David Rawlings’ report of our recent visit to the church plants in Helsinki and Stockholm to see why they still are of priceless value!
Paul wants to send Timothy so he can get news back of how the Philippians are doing. He commends him to them – perhaps they would have preferred the big name apostle to come, instead of getting his young delegate. He commends Timothy as someone with genuine concern, faithfulness and a great son in the Lord.
Paul also wanted to send Epaphroditus, who has clearly been before, as they have expressed concern that he has been seriously ill. See the mutual love the churches have for each other – it is so great to be in a similar family of churches now, Relational Mission, where we can do likewise! Listen out for upcoming opportunities to be on teams like Timothy and Epaphroditus and serve and encourage the churches.
Meanwhile if you are prone to grumbling, then swap it for gratitude, because it makes you shine brighter for Jesus!
Andy Moyle
