In Paul’s letter to the Philippians, Paul writes, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!” Paul loved the people in Philippi, and his epistle oozes with gratefulness for them.
Does it seem like Paul really wants to emphasize this since he says it twice? How does your body react when you hear this passage – rejoice always! – today? Some people believe Paul was in prison when he was writing part of this letter. Does that make it sound different to you?
It’s not so hard to rejoice when it is seventy degrees and sunny and you’re feeling good. As we welcome Dr. Gary Green to preach this weekend and to help focus us on anti-racism, what does it mean to rejoice when you’re dealing with tough realities?
Rejoicing does not distract us from working toward racial justice or ecological sustainability. Rejoicing frees our spirits to continue even when things are difficult. To rejoice is a practice through all that we feel to keep opening our spirits to the promise (as Paul says) that the Lord is near. Holding your concerns and worries in one hand, what joys can help you rejoice in the other?
I’m grateful for the care and joy that St. Timothy’s people show in season and out of season. Thanks for your partnership in this good news!
Three Holy Days
In our tradition, we make space on Maundy Thursday to remember central parts of our faith story. We hear about the...
