We begin reading from Paul’s Epistle to the Philippians today. Philippi was his first community in Europe and had a special place in his heart. He writes to them because they are separated and he misses them. His letter provides a model on how to deal with our pandemic isolation from one another. He starts by expressing gratitude for them. I give thanks to my God at every remembrance of you. Then he reminds them that he feels close even though far away. I hold you in my heart… I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. Finally, he prays for them that they learn to discern what is of value — the love we have for one another, not our differences.
