Stephan Hoffman

Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. I have received full payment and have more than enough. I am amply supplied, now that I have received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent. They are a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God. And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.  To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.  Philippians 4:14-20

To love means to share in each other's joy. Everyone likes this aspect of love; it’s great to be happy and joyful together with others, but what about the other side? To love means to share in each other's suffering. This is the difficult aspect of love, and one that many people today do not have time for.

Think of how many marriages end up on the rocks the moment hardship strikes. How many fair weather friends disappear out the back door when adversity comes through the front door?

Thankfully, believers have a kind of love for one another that’s different from the superficial feeling that the world calls love. Paul experienced something of this love from the church in Philippi; they shared in his suffering and did not leave him to himself. The preaching of the gospel changed their lives so radically that they wanted to share this gift with others. They supported and cared for Paul, and he was filled with gratitude. Now, he assures them of his welfare now so they not need worry about his physical well-being.

Paul calls this kind of sacrificial service of love a fragrant odour. It reminds one of the incense that was used in Paul’s time as a sacrifice to please God. He knows the Philippians' love is not grounded in superficial philanthropy, but in their relationship with God. They show mercy because they are grateful for the mercy they have received. Paul assures them of God's continued grace and that he will provide according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

We have received so much grace and mercy in Christ. Perhaps you have been blessed even further with enough to meet your earthly needs. Will not you thank God for his love by sharing your blessings with others? I am sure you will come across someone today who is suffering. Remember that real love also means sharing in others' suffering as God shared in yours through Christ.

Prayer: Lord, make me aware of how fortunate I am. You gave me the greatest riches in Christ and you care for me every day. May I love others by sharing in their joy, and also in their suffering. Amen