Weekly Theme May 25 through 31

Even When You’re Left Out...Jesus Loves You

Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
(Philippians 1:1-2)

            As we prepare for the opportunity to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with the children of our community through Vacation Bible School, we take time to look at the lessons we have prepared for the children and reflect on their meaning in our lives. It is so important for us to continue our focus on the gospel of Jesus Christ. We cannot hear the good news too many times. We should continually be reminding ourselves of the love we have found in God through the life death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This is why today we are starting the sermon series, Jesus’ Love is One of a Kind.
            For this series we are going to do something different with the journals. We are going to read one of Paul’s letters. In particular we are going to be reading the letter from Paul to the church at Philippi. This is a marvelous letter that is both simplistic in its presentation of its message but also quite complex with many nuances to its arguments. The core message of the letter revolves around the importance of the gospel of Jesus Christ and our roles as servants in mission on behalf of this gospel.

            The setting of the letter centers around the fact that Paul is in prison and fears that he may die soon. This letter is a way to keep in contact with the church in Philippi and let them know how he is doing and how the gospel is spreading in the world. It is important to remember that this is a letter.  It was written for a specific purpose and time. That does not mean that it is of no importance in our lives but that we should take note there is a specific reason and occasion for this letter to be written. Because of this it opens a window into the relationship between its author and its readers.