Scripture: Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! (Philippians 4:4 NKJV)
Philippi was a prosperous Greek city of the Roman Empire. It had been colonized by Roman army veterans and became a miniature of the Imperial City, with baths, forums, and theaters. The citizens would have been intensely loyal to Nero, who called himself, “Lord and Savior” and demanded unquestioned allegiance.
Christianity was first born in Europe on the banks of a nearby river when Lydia responded to Paul’s preaching and brought her family to hear him (Acts 16:14). From this tiny seed, a church grew. Their firm belief in Jesus as the only Lord and Savior would have subjected them to intense persecution by their pro-Nero neighbors.
About thirteen years later, Paul is in a Roman prison—perhaps a horrible underground dungeon—awaiting death. Timothy and possibly Luke are allowed to visit him there. He is delighted when a member of the Philippian church brings news about the congregation. Using young Timothy as his scribe, Paul writes these dear friends a letter, which continues to inspire believers 2,000 years later.
The essence of this epistle is living joyfully in Christ, delighting ourselves in His Presence whatever is going on around us. Paul presents Jesus as our example of perfect obedience and prophecies that one day every knee will bow and every tongue confess that He is Lord.
Today, we too live in chaotic times. We too are mocked and ridiculed for our faith. There is a great divide in our nation that threatens to destroy us. But we can have joy despite every challenge we face. We can hold on to deep joy, having unshakable faith that our beautiful Lord, Jesus Christ, will triumph over all!
Prayer: Lord Jesus, bathe us with Your joy that passes all understanding. Our hope is in You forever and ever. Amen.