Readings for Sunday, September 20, 2020
Exodus 16:2-15
Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45
Philippians 1:21-30
Matthew 20:1-16
Christian Witness:
The letter to the Philippians was probably the last of Paul’s letters written from prison in Rome. Paul’s triumphant faith in the face of his impending trial and death rings through every sentence. Paul was by no means certain of winning his freedom (vs. 19). His one aim in preparing for his imperial audience was to make a bold witness for Christ (vs. 20). This brought forth one of his noblest declarations of what it meant for him to live as a Christian in a world where all the power was totally marshalled against him: “For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain” (vs. 21).
Nevertheless, in writing this letter Paul recognized his importance to the Gentile mission and paid special tribute to his loyal friends in Philippi, his first converts in Europe. He fervently believed he would see them again and enjoy their fellowship (vs. 24-26). So he urged them to live lives that are worthy of the gospel of Christ.
Living as Christians was never easy. The key to Christian witness, then as now, is faithfulness to Christ. In Paul's time, that may have meant persecution to the point of martyrdom. In our time and place, it may not carry the same consequences, but it is as important. Many whom we meet day by day will learn no more of Christ than they see in us.
Source: www.johnshearmanlectionary.com
