This Sunday, we begin a new series, “Philippians: The Joyful Life.” The background to this letter is Acts 16, where we read about Paul traveling to Macedonia and planting a church in Philippi. Over the next decade this church grew in love and in faith. While imprisoned in Rome, chained to the Roman guard, Paul’s thoughts and heart turned toward Philippi. Overflowing with joy, Paul sends this letter of thanks and encouragement to this wonderful church. He writes of unity, love, humility, and thanksgiving, but the major theme repeated throughout this short letter is joy. What is joy? Do you have it? Is our church full of joy? As we journey through the letter to the Philippians, may the Lord teach us the joy of salvation, and how we can live a joyful life in every season.
