Epicenter: Philippi (Exchanging Sadness for Joy) — Thursday
Philippians 1:4-5
In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel... (NIV)
My friend Steve has been in ministry for over forty years.
During that time, he’s led multiple churches. He’s prayed with people on golf courses and in hospital waiting rooms. He’s walked with people through discipleship and addiction. He’s watched countless people give their lives to Christ, and has even watched people completely give up on Jesus.
Steve married my parents. He buried my dad.
After all the highs and lows Steve has seen throughout his time in ministry, it would be easy for someone like him to turn cynical or become compassion-fatigued—or to be cautious about encouraging young guys like me to pursue vocational ministry. However, not only has Steve become one of my biggest mentors, but he’s also the world’s greatest cheerleader for anyone participating in Kingdom work.
“It has just been such a joy to watch!” he says, sitting across the table from me at a restaurant a few years ago. “Look at all the ways God has used you—think of all the ways He’ll continue to use you!”
Even though he’s overly generous with his praise, I can always count on Steve for encouragement. When I preach a mediocre sermon, he texts me something specific he loved about it. When I feel scattered, he mails me a good book that centers me. Despite having braved many hard seasons of ministry himself, there’s a certain aura about Steve—an unfailing positivity, an unmistakable quality that draws people to him: joy. And not only joy in his own life, but joy toward anyone following Jesus.
If I had to guess, it’s the same kind of joy the Apostle Paul had for the church in Philippi, as well as the many other churches he encouraged along the way. As we’ve already learned this week, the Philippians found themselves in the midst of a spiritual drought. But Paul was no stranger to the highs and lows of Kingdom work himself. In response to their discouragement, he not only prays for them—but also celebrates the work he sees God doing through them.
Kingdom work can be hard. However, when we surround ourselves with joyful Christ-followers who celebrate the work they see God doing through us, it makes the “good” parts of our journey a lot easier to remember. In this way, everyone needs at least one “Paul” in their life.
And if you’re lucky, maybe even a Steve.
Thursday’s Reflection
Think of the most joyful person you know. Make an effort to reach out to them this week, or even better—invite them to lunch or coffee!
