Over the previous 3 Sundays we considered “a life worthy of the Gospel” from Philippians. We heard these things – firstly the challenge to accept and follow Jesus’ invitation under the theme: What will I do?
In the second week we were urged to consider others more important than ourselves: The importance of others. Last week the Apostle Paul reminded us that: The Best Is Still Ahead. This Sunday in his closing paragraphs the Apostle Paul lays out ingredients for peace.
There’s no ‘do this’ or ‘do that’ in his list. Instead, he simply tells us: ‘keep your minds on these things’!
He knows that when we dwell on things, they tend to emerge in our actions. For example, if our minds are focused on anger and frustration, guess what, almost inevitably anger and frustration overflows in our actions: harsh words, taking it out on other people, even taking it out on our loved ones and ourselves.
So what would it look like if each one of us, wherever we are, whenever we are tempted to harsh thinking, consciously refocused our thoughts on to whatever is true, pure, right, holy, friendly, and proper. If we are focused on these things, then it is most unlikely that we will erupt in anger and frustration. The opposite is more likely. Perhaps we will be more likely to forgive, help and bless other people? The origin of such a way of life is found in Christ.
Jesus, who had every reason for anger, vengeance and the like: instead, intentionally loved, forgave, and even blessed his enemies. Because of his humility we have peace with him. Surely, this is a recipe for peace in our lives?