Welcome to worship. Today our scripture reading is from the Pauline Epistle to the church at Philippi. The Philippian church is believed to be one of the healthier churches in the ancient world, at least if Paul’s affection for them is any indication. Even still, they struggle with disputes and division among themselves. In the verses read today, we will see that Paul encourages them to be of one mind, and for that to be the mind of Christ.

Our world today is full of so many opportunities for division and disunity. Seeing as our church is in this world, I suspect at times, we let those divisions permeate our fellowship. Therefore, I wonder if we might find any encouragement in the reading for today? Might Paul’s words help us remember why we exist? Might this reading help us remain focused and unified in our mission? I hope!