A Reflection for Thursday, December 5, 2024 by Rev. Shannon Webb
Lectionary reading for 12/5/2024: Luke 1:68-79; Malachi 3:5-12; Philippians 1:12-18a
Selected passage for reflection: Philippians 1:12-18a
Read
Philippians 1:12-18a New International Version
Now, I want you to know, brothers and sisters that what has happened to me has actually served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. And because of my chains, most of the brothers and sisters have become confident in the Lord and dare all the more to proclaim the gospel without fear.
It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. The latter do so out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can stir up trouble for me while I am in chains. But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this, I rejoice.
Reflect
I am always intrigued by Paul’s story, namely his ability to maintain heavenly perspective in all circumstances. Several times in his letters he rejoices his captivity, proclaims that his imprisonment is a blessing – and it, in fact, was. Paul’s conversion story and attitude towards his trials offer hope to those of us who have felt the muck and mire of our personal rock-bottom.
Paul was a man that practiced what he preached: trust God in all things and be focused on the things of heaven, not here in our fallen world. In this passage, Paul offers us perspective, seeing joy in the opportunity, rather than the oppression of his chains. He recognized that his circumstances allowed outreach to those who otherwise may not have had access to the message (i.e. the palace guard). Additionally, he was not concerned with the more selfish motives of others, he recognized the truth, but also saw beyond to the greater picture: “in every way… Christ is preached.”
We can view Paul’s chains as metaphorical – captivity, silencing, bondage – an involuntary or undesired weight we carry that attempts to keep us isolated or marginalized. We may not find ourselves in a physical prison, but certainly many have found themselves bound mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Here Paul calls attention to the divine order that even in our dire circumstances, God can use it for good things, to share his glory and shine the light of the divine into the darkest corners.
Paul did not hide his imprisonment – he wanted others to know, to understand where he was and why he was there. His admission offered hope to those struggling, to those also in chains, to those waiting for restoration, and gave courage to those still free to share the gospel message. His stance while in chains was of joyful proclamation in the promise of salvation as he encouraged others on the outside. While he was contained, Paul was a driving force in a chaotic world of uncertainty and persecution as he offered the redeeming message of Christ and inspired others to courageously do the same. Paul understood what mattered most.
Respond
Think about your community, your world. Where have you faced (or maybe still facing) imprisonment and bondage? Where can your faith in the face of such captivity offer hope to others to proclaim the gospel without fear or grow confident in the Lord?
Rest
Merciful Spirit, thank you for the promise of hope – even amid our hopeless circumstances. We rejoice that your word is the final say and that you use all things to bring about your glory, even our sufferings. We thank you for those who have inspired us and offered courage along this journey and ask that we may be that source for someone else. May your light shine through us so that we can share it with others. May we be refreshed and courageous to continue sharing your message of love with those around us during this Advent season, and every day. Amen.
About the Author
Shannon Webb lives in Valrico Florida and is a wife, mother, daughter, and serves as a hospital chaplain after being a nurse for nearly 15 years. She is a practitioner of Christian Druidry and enjoys seeking God in Creation through hiking, kayaking, and sitting under her “thinking tree”.
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