Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women since they have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel, along with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life. Philippians 4:3
“And ye were all humble, boasting of nothing, submitting yourselves rather than subjecting others, more gladly giving than receiving, content with the provision that God had given you; and attending diligently to his words, ye received them into your very hearts, and his sufferings were before your eyes. Thus a deep and rich peace was given to all, and an insatiable longing for doing good, and a plentiful outpouring of the Holy Spirit was upon all of you.”
Clement of Rome in 1 Clement 2:1-2, translated by Charles Hoole.
Clement, mentioned by the Apostle Paul in today’s text, would go on to lead the church in Rome as a bishop. Today’s reading comes from his first letter to the church in Corinth (c. AD 96) before his martyrdom under Emperor Trajan (c. AD 100).
The first coming of Christ, which we celebrated yesterday, marked a turning point in all of human history. Consequently, I am inspired to make a fresh journey through church history. I hope you will join me as we explore statements by followers of Christ that relate to generosity in the days to come.
Early church Christians exhibited humility, submission, contentment, and generosity. These traits resulted from “attending diligently” to the words of Jesus. Despite much persecution they received peace, a drive to do good, and “a plentiful outpouring of the Holy Spirit” in their lives.
Father in heaven, help us attend diligently to the teachings of Jesus regardless of what others are doing. Plentifully pour out the Holy Spirit and peace in each of our lives so that we too reflect humility, submission, contentment, and generosity. Make it so we pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.