Philippians 1:27-28a & 4:4-7
Only, live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that, whether I come and see you or am absent and hear about you, I will know that you are standing firm in one spirit, striving side by side with one mind for the faith of the gospel and in no way frightened by those opposing you.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Reflection
I am now halfway into my third year of full-time ministry based within a cluster of churches in the West of Scotland. I’d love to say it has all been plain sailing so far, but not quite. Even through the difficult times, I still feel that this is where God is calling me to be, and these are the people that I am being called to serve.
To say that ministry has been everything I expected it to be, is definitely not the case. I have discovered many new and, may I say, well hidden, talents, including building maintenance and painting! I’ve also discovered a beauty in the way in which we are led by the Spirit to the places, and the people, that are calling us most.
This year with one of my congregations we decided to take a deeper look at Paul’s letter to the Philippians, to consider how those first churches thrived and survived during a period of turmoil and uncertainty, noticing the correlation with the struggles facing our congregations here and now. There is no denying that at times, ministry can feel like a bit of a bare-knuckle roller-coaster ride.
However, amongst all the ups and downs, the highs, and the lows – yes there are low points folks – the understanding that this is a vocation to which I have been called, could not be stronger.
Those opening and closing remarks found in Paul’s letter to that new church family in Philippi have aided and guided me through those high and low moments that come with the call to ministry. These verses transport me back to June 2023, to my ordination and the vows taken then. They are a check, a reminder, to always live a life worthy of the gospel of Christ, in one mind, with one spirit, and side by side with my brothers and sisters of faith.
Prayer
Gracious Lord,
You call us to live a life worthy of the Gospel,
to stand firm in faith and walk with courage.
May we serve with humility and joy,
united with others in love and purpose.
May your Spirit guide our steps,
so that our lives may reflect Your light,
and our work bring glory to Your name.
In the name of Jesus Christ our Saviour,
Amen