July 10: The Heart of St. Paul
G.K. Chesterton wrote that the problem with Christians is that they look so unredeemed. He expected Christians to be a joyful people. So does St. Paul. In the midst of the ups and downs of his missionary journeys, he tells the Philippians :”Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say rejoice. Let all men know your forebearance. The Lord is at hand. Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplications with thanksgiving let our request be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4:4-7)
Today when we look at politics, the economy and the culture, we don’t find much to rejoice about. Paul’s response is that our lack of joy is the result of looking at things without the presence of Christ. God is not going to lower gas prices or fix the economy, but he constantly reminds us that we are not alone. As brothers and sisters of Jesus Christ, we have hope in this life and the next. As a Church, we have the responsibility to help everyone on their journey of faith. As Paul says, “The Lord is at hand.” When we were children we felt secure by the presence of our parents. As adults, we find a certain security in our friends or our spouse. As Christians, we are companions of Christ. By our prayers of praise and thanksgiving and petition to God, we know we have help nearby. Rejoice! Now matter how low you feel or how many burdens you carry, you are not alone. The Lord is near! This is what the heart of St. Paul tells us.
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