June 6, 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 Philippians 2:19-30 Paul expresses Paul expresses his desire to send Timothy to the Philippians, highlighting his concern for their well-being and his personal joy in receiving news from them. Paul commends Timothy for his genuine concern for the Philippians and his proven character in the gospel ministry. He also mentions Epaphroditus, a fellow co-worker who was ill and almost died, and urges the Philippians to honour him for his selfless service and near-death experience for the sake of Christ. Both Timothy and Epaphroditus serve as examples of humility and selflessness, demonstrating a commitment to the well-being of others and the gospel of Christ. It is a reminder that God through the Holy Spirit equips the church with unique people with a diversity of gifts for the benefit of the body of Christ. Paul recognized that the Philippian congregation would be blessed with pastoral leadership whether he was present or absent. Timothy and Epaphroditus were called and equipped to carry on the pastoral work that had been started and that God would carry it forward. Paul had unique gifts but the congregational life of the Philippian congregation did not rest on his presence. It rested on the power of the Holy Spirit present in each member of their church. This is also my belief and prayer for our Glenbrook family. The Holy Spirit has blessed our congregation with a variety of spiritual gifts for the care of God’s people and for the furtherance of the gospel of Christ. This Sunday is also Pentecost Sunday in which we celebrate and are reminded that through the Holy Spirit God continues to empower and equip GPC to care for each other and to proclaim the good news.

Next Sunday I will be away. I will be officiating the wedding for my good friends Samanatha (Black) and Mike (DeJourdan) on Saturday afternoon near Parry Sound Ontario. We are so glad for Sam and Mike and extend God’s blessing to them as they become united as husband and wife. In my absence Brian Irwin will help lead the service and will preach the message.   

Have a great weekend 

Pastor Ian