"Therefore, my brothers and sisters, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, in this way stand firm in the Lord, beloved." – Phi 4:1
In today's reading, Saint Paul encourages the Philippians to remain steadfast to the message and example that he and his ministry has set forth. The temptation of the early church members to stray from the Gospel message was very real. St. Paul is brought to tears as he laments those who continue to persist in opposition to Christ. However, through tears, he offers us an inspiring message of hope. While others have "their minds occupied with earthly things," Saint Paul reminds us that we are not of this world, because our citizenship is not of this world, but of Heaven.
Saint Paul, a pillar of courage, sends this letter of encouragement from his Roman prison cell. With that in mind, how can we today live out the Gospel courageously? One sure way is resting in the hope that we are citizens of Heaven.
Heavenly Father, may we reflect the courage of St. Paul, keeping our minds on the things of heaven and living the message of Christ courageously.
Reflection by:
Isaac Cruz
Did you know...
Isaac Cruz is a seminarian for the Diocese of St. Petersburg in his freshman year. His home parish is St. Michael the Archangel in Clearwater. He was born in Deland, Florida and raised in Mount Olive, New Jersey. He is a convert to the Catholic Church.
Pray with us for the men and women discerning the priesthood and religious life. To pray for our seminarians by name or to find out more about the Diocese of St. Petersburg vocations office, click here
