Bible Reading: Philippians 4:14-20
It was good of you to share in my troubles. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need.
Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account.
I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.
And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever.
Amen.
A Reflection
As a church we are moving towards our Harvest Service; a time of thanksgiving as we remember God's faithfulness, and a time to give to those in need. The circumstances are different this year, and we are unable to do the things that we would normally do, but the needs are even greater this year as many struggle with the financial impact of Covid 19. Just as in Paul’s day, there are people locally and around the world who have plenty, while others struggle to feed their families and make ends meet.
Towards the end of his letter to the Philippians, Paul, writing from a prison cell, commends them for sharing with him in the matter of giving and receiving, for the aid he received and for the gifts they sent to him through their mutual friend Epaphroditus. It seems that the Philippians had previously supported Paul financially when he was on his missionary journeys and were now supporting him during his time in prison.
Today, as a benefice, we too have the privilege of supporting those locally who are in need as we collect non-perishable items for Kettering Food bank and as we give financially to support the work of the Hope Centre. We also have the privilege of giving to support the mission and ministry of the church.
We serve a faithful and generous God and I am immensely grateful for all that we have as a community and as a nation. Our God is faithful and, as Paul reminded the Philippians, he will meet all our needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.
This harvest time, let us commit to generous living as we share in the troubles of those in need and as we support the mission and ministry of the church. And let us trust in the promise of God to meet all our needs. To him be glory, for ever and ever.
A Prayer
All good gifts around us are sent from heaven above,
Then thank the Lord, O thank the Lord, for all his love.
Amen.
Give thanks, with a grateful heart