The Place to Be #61

Philippians 4:21 Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you. 22 All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar's household. 23 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Paul has had a lot to say to this church at Philippi. Twice he has given a benediction and blessing, so some people may have stopped listening by this time. But for those of us who like to stay at a movie for the credits, these closing words are important, as they help us see deeper into the heart of Paul and the glue that held the early church together.  Paul wanted EVERY believer to know that they were valued in his eyes. He also did not take for granted those who had come to care for him while he was in prison. We see here also that Paul had made inroads for the gospel into Caesar's household, the most powerful palace of the day.  But what especially united them and was to give them (and us) hope for the future is the grace - the God-given ability in Christ to do what we cannot do on our own.  That should encourage our spirits to keep us going and growing in Christ, no matter what our situation is currently. He has much more in store.