Forward Movement is an official, non-profit agency of the Episcopal Church whose mission is to create compelling content for Christian living. Since 1935 we have published the quarterly devotional Forward Day by Day, as well as pamphlets, booklets, and books that encourage and nourish people in their lives of prayer and faith.
MONDAY, September 5
Philippians 1:1-11. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Well-written letters begin with a greeting or salutation. Today, they often begin with the word, “Dear,” as in “Dear Mom, “ or “Dear friends.” This is a courteous way to begin communicating, and it can be a statement of respect or affection.
As e-mail and text messaging replace letter writing, the traditional greetings are disappearing. This can be a sad loss in a time when civil discourse becomes more and more rare.
When the Apostle Paul wrote to his friends in Philippi, he used a form of salutation familiar to them. What a wonderful wish he expresses for them: Grace and peace from God. No one can wish better for anyone, ever.
To Paul, grace meant God’s unearned favor. He experienced this grace in his life when he accepted Christ’s love for him and Christ’s call for his service. To him, peace meant wholeness, health, and salvation. This is the shalom with which faithful Jews greet each other. Paul knew grace and peace fully in Christ, and he begin his letter to friends with this wish.
How will you wish this for others today?
PRAY for the Diocese of Seychelles (Indian Ocean)
Ps 41, 52 * 44; 1 Kings 13:1-10; Mark 15:40-47
View the daily Lectionary Readings at Satucket.com.
Or view the Bible passages at Biblegateway.com or Oremus Bible browser.
A Meditation for Pentecost
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