May 23, 2025

Dear Friends, 

This Sunday we will continue our study in a sermon series called “Joy: A Study in Philippians”. The Apostle Paul had a special relationship with the church of Philippi. While he was imprisoned (most likely in Rome in 60 AD) he wrote to them a personal letter of joy and gratitude for the ways in which they had remembered him and had supported him. In the opening greeting and prayer of chapter one, the Apostle Paul gives a personal testimony to his imprisonment and the concern for his wellbeing from this small congregation. “For to me, living is Christ and to die is gain”. Paul rejoices in how God has used his suffering and his adversity to come along side of others in “faithful labour” and has advanced the gospel. In chapter 2, Paul turns his attention to the unity and the humility that needs to be a characteristic of the Philippian congregation. Paul writes “ If then there is any encouragement in Christ, any consolation from love, any sharing in the Spirit, any compassion and sympathy,  make my joy complete:”  Paul is encouraging them to work together in unity, humility and compassion and not only will his joy be complete, but they to will be advancing  the gospel. Their example is to be Jesus who is the incarnate Lord and Saviour now exalted over all the earth. Vs 4-11 is a beautiful poem that describes the person and work of Jesus, his unity with the Father and the Spirit, his humility, his servant heart, his sacrifice for the sake of the world that God loves. Some might ask “Who is God?” The Christian response is look to Jesus the risen and exalted Lord. Some might ask “Where can I find God?” The Christian response is in the community of Christ followers who by God’s grace reflect the unity, humility and love of Jesus. Is this the reality of the church today? Sadly not always, but God isn’t finished with us yet!   

I am pleased to let the congregation know that our Interim Moderator will be Pastor Stephen Rothery of Knox Presbyterian Church Milton. I was the Interim Moderator of Knox Milton when Knox called Steve and the Presbytery inducted him to be their Pastor in 2021. I have been able to develop friendship with Steve who is also a part of a small (zoom) support and prayer group of Pastors to which I belong. I am grateful to the Presbytery for the work they have done to bring Pastor Steve alongside GPC as I retire.      

Have a great weekend  

Pastor Ian