Philippians 4: 10-19
Brothers and sisters: I rejoice in the Lord greatly that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned for me, but had no opportunity to show it. Not that I am referring to being in need; for I have learned to be content with whatever I have. I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me. In any case, it was kind of you to share my distress.
You Philippians indeed know that in the early days of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you alone. For even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me help for my needs more than once. Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the profit that accumulates to your account. I have been paid in full and have more than enough; I am fully satisfied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. And my God will fully satisfy every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
New Revised Standard Version, copyright 1989, by the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. USCCB approved.
God’s Constant Presence
Saint Paul tells us that he has learned to live with both abundance and hardship. He has experienced hunger and plenty, uncertainty and security. Yet through it all, he has discovered something that remains constant.
He tells us that following Christ gives us the strength to face whatever life brings. His confidence doesn't come from knowing what tomorrow holds. It comes from knowing who will be with him both today and tomorrow.
Notice that Paul says he has learned to be content. This confidence didn't come overnight. It developed through the challenges and uncertainties of his life. We forget that the same is true for us. Trusting God is something we learn and experience, often through the very circumstances we wish we could avoid.
Our circumstances change. God's presence does not.
—Jim Bozik is a permanent deacon and Associate for Pastoral Ministry at St. Peter Catholic Church, the Jesuit church in the Diocese of Charlotte, NC.
Prayer
Jesus, I feel within me
a great desire to please you
but, at the same time,
I feel totally incapable of doing this
without your special light and help,
which I can expect only from you.
Accomplish your will within me –
even in spite of me.
—St. Claude La Colombiere, SJ
Pray with the Pope
