If there is any encouragement in Christ, any solace in love, any participation in the Spirit, any compassion and mercy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, with the same love, united in heart, thinking one thing.
The song of Jesus's kenosis in Philippians 2 is cited so often -- because it is so important! -- that we might neglect Saint Paul's wonderful preamble.
In these few words, he urged his disciples to "complete his joy" by their oneness of mind and heart; and they would accomplish that as they contemplated the passage of Jesus through his most humiliating death to his more astonishing glorification.
While admitting that the Church is always faithful because the Holy Spirit never abandons us, we can also say we are faithful so long as ponder the passion and death of Jesus. Which is to admit that our attention has often wandered. And that is why Saint Paul urged his Philippians to greater fidelity.
Our Baptism and Eucharist are wonderful entries into the great mystery of the Lord's divinity, especially as we remain within the wonder of contemplation. The Apostle apparently believes our individual peace of mind and our collective harmony will remain undisturbed under the most trying circumstances when we live in thrall of the Pascal (Easter) mystery.
Even a cursory glance at the liturgical and artistic history of the Church shows that we have never lost sight of that vision. I think of the innumerable images, songs, plays, and movies, some quite graphic, which describe the Lord's death, resurrection, ascension, and enthronement. Anyone who attends religion gazes continually on the Pascal Mystery. .
We have perhaps at times over-stressed his suffering and ghastly death, and at other times, focused too much on his victorious resurrection, but the Spirit invariably brings us back toward some kind of balance.
Unfortunately, the world outside the Church, lacking the Spirit, cherry picks the gospel, retaining its more agreeable messages and scrapping its challenges. I think of Thomas Jefferson's famous "bible" which dismissed the entire Old Testament, and retained only some teachings of Jesus. The great philosopher and second president of the United States had not use for miracles and symbols. We can create our own meaning and manage quite well without divine intervention, Thank You! If there is a God he should stay out of human affairs.
Those who enter the mystery through prayer and contemplation suffer the Lord's agony. And then their own, as they experience the disappointments, setbacks, and insults of ordinary life. Willingly they approach the crucifixion and discover mercy as they are led to Jesus's resurrection.
That challenging, exhilarating process finally allows them to be,
"of the same mind, with the same love, united in heart, thinking one thing. (They) do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, each looking out not for his own interests, but also everyone for those of others."
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.