"From the first day..." ~ The Philippians church was the first church Paul the Apostle founded in Europe. My Korean Bible puts it as such: "...복음을 들은 그 날부터..." i.e. "...from that day (you) heard the Gospel..."
How faithful the Philippians church was toward Paul!
How faithful the Philippians church was toward Paul!
My question to myself with regards to my support for those who have devoted their lives to the clergy as well as to my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ who labour to serve God and spread the Gospel in whichever field they engage in: have I truly supported them well? Partnership does not merely mean financial contributions (although this is very helpful and meets many urgent needs) - but it also encompasses being deeply concerned of the spiritual and emotional well-being of the minister. Praying, encouraging, offering the gifts of time and a listening ear, comforting the broken/disillusioned and suffering alongside him/her... sometimes mentoring and discipling as well. So often, we just "sow" into a ministry/mission by putting money into the offering bags in our churches - and then, happy that we have "sowed" in one way, we seem to forget that the follow-up part after that is most vital to support one in his/her ministry/mission.
My answer to my question? Not really. I'm sorry. I may begin well... but sometimes, I fall into complacency along the way. Sometimes. Not all the time. Thank God for that.
I hope to do better. God, grant me grace... to humbly learn from those who have supported me well in my pursuit of your vocation and calling upon my life.
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