By Sister Kathleen Murphy OSF
How might we respond to Saint Paul’s letter to the Philippians if it were written today and addressed to us, Christians living in a divided America?
“Brothers and Sisters: If there is any encouragement in Christ, any solace in love, any participation in the Spirit, any compassion and mercy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, with the same love, united in heart, thinking one thing. Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, each looking out not for his own interest, but also everyone for those of others.”
If Paul were walking among us today, would we, as compassionate, merciful Christians, be able to complete his joy by being of the same mind, with the same love, united in heart, thinking one thing?
Would Paul find us acting out of selfishness or vainglory?
Would he find us looking out for our own interests or the interests of others?
Would he find that Christ is the center of our lives?
Would Paul find us praying and working toward unity with each other as we strive to be one with Christ, one with the Triune God?
These are troubled times in our country and throughout the world. Today is Election Day. Let us try to be of one heart even if we cannot agree on each issue or on our choice of candidates. Let us show that we are Christians by our love for one another deeply rooted in our love for God.
May Paul be pleased! May God be praised!
