“For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare. For they all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 2:20-21 ESV
Reflection: who or what are you mostly concerned about, and why?
Did you see the results of the recent election?
We tend to “concern” ourselves with many things, meaning what we think about, care about, even worry about. These are the things that keep our minds occupied and focused, even stealing our energy, If the concerns are strong enough, they can paralyze us, unable to think of much else. These are things of life, of living, but might not be anything we can influence. Might be related to relationships, finances, jobs, colleagues, neighbors, friends, climate, wars, and, yes, even elections. Most of us have a pretty long list of concerns, when we stop and think about it. But how much of our concerns are focused on self, versus concerns for others? And as a follower of Christ, how much of our concerns are for the kingdom of God, versus of the world? Are we more concerned about the results of an election, than the moral decay of society and our children’s education? What do we do about it?
Martha was concerned about many things, perhaps her outfit, the appearance of her house, and how she could prepare and serve a good meal for her very important guests. Her sister Mary had other priorities, to listen and learn from the Master, which really frustrated Martha. How could she just sit there and listen when there were so many things to do? We read “But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”” Luke 10:40-42 ESV. We can so easily understand Martha, although we want to imagine we would act like Mary. But, in our daily lives, are we more like Martha or Mary?
Paul made an interesting observation about the people in his surroundings, saying “they all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 2:21 ESV. We can probably assume here that he was pretty frustrated with most of his traveling companions; perhaps even some of the believers in Rome from where he wrote this letter. That they were selfish, more concerned about their own lives than that of others, of the body of believers. But, there was one who was not selfish, his spiritual “son” Timothy. Of him he writes “For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare.” Philippians 2:20 ESV So, Paul cannot travel since he is in prison, and wants to send Timothy to the believers in Philippi, to check on them, encourage them, and so on. And he trusts that Timothy can properly represent him,
because of his genuine concern for them.
So it really struck me today, reflecting on my own “concerns”; meaning what is taking my brain cycles, and what I am doing. How much of this is on self versus on others, and in particular the concerns and interests of Jesus Christ. The question might be related to who I let influence me, in what and who I am spending time watching, reading and listening to, etc.. So, perhaps it is a good opportunity for each of us to reflect on what we are concerned with these days, and if needed, to humble ourselves before our Lord.
“Lord Jesus Christ, I repent of the way I have been selfish and too worldly oriented, focusing so much of my time and energy on my own interests and wants. Please forgive me, and help me make the necessary changes in my life that please you. Help me also see others through your eyes, with your concerns and kingdom interests. I pray in Jesus name, Amen.”
