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OF ONE MIND (PHILIPPIANS 4:1-3)

REFLECTION

“Of one mind” is the theme for our reflection. Of one mind is to be in agreement or to reason together regardless of our differences. We shall reflect on the fact that although we may all be very dedicated servants of the Lord there are times we may disagree on issues, however, for the sake of the Gospel and in the spirit of peace and unity of the body of Christ we must learn to be of one mind.

Paul acknowledged the disagreement between Euodia and Syntyche and called for reconciliation. These women were committed Christians who supported Paul in his spread of the Gospel and in establishing the Philippian church. Paul first commended them when he wrote “…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). Euodia and Syntyche were good and committed Christians who cared about the Gospel and the growth of the church yet their interpersonal relationship stalled. We are not told what really transpired between the two women but when Paul got to know about their disagreement, he wrote to them through the Church of Philippi “I plead with Euodia and I plead with Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord.” (Philippians 4:2).

Who then will be the mediator between the two women so that they can be of the same mind or in agreement for peace to prevail? Paul instructed the Church to be the agent of reconciliation when he wrote, “Yes, and I ask you, my true companion, help these women…” (Philippians 4:3). In other words, one of the significant role of the Church is to establish and maintain unity and peaceful relationship among believers. Those who are charged with this duty are church leaders. Unfortunately, some of these church leaders become the source of trouble and strife or contentions in the church. Dear friends, disagreement is bound to happen where two or three are gathered, but as Christians and more importantly Church leaders, we must insist and consciously work towards reconciliation, peace and a fellowship of one mind. Joseph’s advice to his brothers is instructive even as we desire to be of one mind, he said to his brothers, “Don’t quarrel on the way!” (Genesis 45:24)

In summary, we have discovered that although we may all be very dedicated servants of the Lord there are times we may disagree on issues, however, for the sake of the Gospel and in the spirit of peace and unity of the body of Christ we must learn to be of one mind.

PRAYER

Holy Spirit, empower us to be agents of peace and reconciliation in our congregations. Help the Church to be of one mind to effectively propagate the Gospel in the world. Amen.