Philippians 2:20-22
20 I have no one like [Timothy] who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare. 21All of them are seeking their own interests, not those of Jesus
Christ. 22But Timothy’s worth you know, how like a son with a father he has served with me in the work of the gospel.
In an age of instant communications (I don’t Twitter but I do have email and two telephone numbers) the concept of a carefully written letter is anachronistic. But sometimes I think the Luddites were right. Words are powerful and too often email messages are misunderstood; I suspect the risk is higher in 140 characters.
In this passage from his letter, Paul is telling the church at Philippi that he is sending his associate Timothy back to be with them. Tim’s job is to personally deliver Paul’s thanks for gifts the Philippians’ had sent to him in prison and to help them sort through quarrels and bickering that are dividing them. Importantly, Paul is telling them that Timothy (unlike others in Rome at the time) is speaking the “true” gospel. That he will be genuinely concerned for their welfare.
As we move toward Holy Week and Easter, we get to hear the “true” gospel directly from Jesus. He is so concerned with our welfare that He is preparing to give his life for ours. Thankfully that message is written out in full; there is no way it can be misunderstood.
Tom Germuska
For more on all of our ministries, visit http://www.allsaintspalatine.org Join us for worship on Sunday at 8:30 and 11. Wednesday, September 24 will be our Seder Dinner. Email office@allsaintspalatine.org to reserve your spot. Easter morning (April 4) we will have a breakfast. To contribute cooking or service, be in touch with Sandi Bolinger or Lori Quinn (847-991-4513).
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