Philippians 4:10
I rejoice in the Lord greatly that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned for me, but had no opportunity to show it.
It’s easy to think of the Christian life primarily as one of giving: giving support to others, giving to those in need, giving our time and talents to the church, giving our praise to God, and so forth.
And certainly that is a huge part of the Christian life. We know ourselves to be blessed and out of that sense of abundance we give of what we have and who we are to others. Importantly, this has next to nothing to do with wealth. Wealthy or poor, there is always much that we can give.
But in this passage, Paul reminds us that the Christian life is also about receiving: receiving the support of another, receiving the gifts of those who want to help, receiving, ultimately, the grace of God.
That last one is the easiest. God is God, after all, and so we assume that we can and should and do receive much, indeed everything, from God and in return offer our thanks and praise.
But receiving from others often isn’t as easy for us. Indeed, it can be downright difficult. Receiving something we need from others can make us feel dependent or in debt to their kindness or generosity. And that is something we have been trained to avoid at all costs. Is not the definition of the “self-made” man or woman to be independent, free from obligation or debt?
What foolishness! We could not get by without the love and support and kindness and charity of those around us. And so Paul thanks the Philippians both for being concerned about him and for doing something about it.
But it’s more than this. In acknowledging their gift, Paul is also spurring them on to greater concern and generosity. When someone learns that a gift they have given you is appreciated, or met a need, or made a difference, they are always encouraged to give more, perhaps to you but just as likely to others. And so when we acknowledge our need and gratitude to each other we encourage each other in generosity.
Yet it’s still more than this, because by giving thanks for their gift, Paul also gives the Philippians a gift in return: the gift of purpose and partnership. How often does someone offer some kindness – to share a seat on the bus, or give us a copy of the newspaper, or pay for our cab fare, or treat us to lunch – and we demur. “No, no, no,” we say, “I couldn’t.” Of course we could. We often refuse kindness out that misplaced sense of independence that fears always to be in someone else’s debt. And yet in mutual friendship, owing and debt are not operative categories. There is no debt in love. And so by refusing another’s kindness we rob them of a chance to be who they were created to be: generous, caring, giving persons.
So the Christian life is about giving…and receiving. And when you practice both you discover they are all of the same material, integral parts of the fabric of Christian love and fellowship.
Prayer: Dear God, make us cheerful givers…and receivers, that by receiving the kindness and generosity of others we may both be blessed and bless those who care for us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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