Even though I have said it before, in my book, one can never say "Thank you" enough. Although I abhor favoritism (not God's favor). Favoritism - meaning inequitable partiality, particularly in the church, and even moreso among denominations of the church (ONE BODY); I absolutely believe in giving credit where godly credit is due. I make mention of this only because, as true in times gone by, some in the church will no doubt accuse me of seeking favor from man by blessing only those who feed me. But, that's the beauty of written testimony; record shows that I have blessed even those who have cursed me. HALLELUJAH!!! Nevertheless, like Paul said, in focusing my attention on Philippians 4:8 this morning, the peace of gratitude filled my heart once again. I was led to read the entirety of chapter 4, which then prompted me to revisit, with thanksgiving, the branch of the Body of Christ that helped me so greatly during my time of need. If The Apostle Paul, writer of most of the New Testament, can single out a church for her well doing, so can I.
To The Catholic Church:
I know that you have received, and continue to receive a great deal of criticism for past, and perhaps even current indiscretions; but, as Jesus admonishes, with rebuke, in Matthew 23; and we are reminded in Revelations, there is much fault, and therefore much repentance to go around, within all the church, for we are all but works in progress, whom because of grace are afforded the option to heed or not to heed. Though none among us is absolutely perfect, I am inclined to express my sentiment of gratitude to you, once again, for your perfect work of gracious giving by quoting, verbatim, Paul's scriptural expression of gratitude to the church that helped him so greatly during his time of need:
Philippians 4: 12-17
"I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Even so, you have done well to share with me in my present difficulty.
As you know, you Philippians were the only ones who gave me financial help when I first brought you the Good News and then traveled on from Macedonia. No other church did this. Even when I was in Thessalonica you sent help more than once. I don’t say this because I want a gift from you. Rather, I want you to receive a reward for your kindness."
To The Catholic Church:
I know that you have received, and continue to receive a great deal of criticism for past, and perhaps even current indiscretions; but, as Jesus admonishes, with rebuke, in Matthew 23; and we are reminded in Revelations, there is much fault, and therefore much repentance to go around, within all the church, for we are all but works in progress, whom because of grace are afforded the option to heed or not to heed. Though none among us is absolutely perfect, I am inclined to express my sentiment of gratitude to you, once again, for your perfect work of gracious giving by quoting, verbatim, Paul's scriptural expression of gratitude to the church that helped him so greatly during his time of need:
Philippians 4: 12-17
"I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Even so, you have done well to share with me in my present difficulty.
As you know, you Philippians were the only ones who gave me financial help when I first brought you the Good News and then traveled on from Macedonia. No other church did this. Even when I was in Thessalonica you sent help more than once. I don’t say this because I want a gift from you. Rather, I want you to receive a reward for your kindness."
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
In the name of our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus. Amen.
THANK YOU LORD
In the name of our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus. Amen.
THANK YOU LORD