The Daily Office for February 24, 2012
Scriptures
Psalm 95
Ezekiel 18:1-32
Philippians 4:1-9
John 17:9-19
Reading (Philippians 4:1-9)
Reflection
Euodias means “prosperous journey” and Syntyche means “pleasant acquaintance.” The two women mentioned in our Epistle reading were prominent and capable leaders yet they had had a disagreement that had grown to the point it required a trusted intermediary (v. 3). Paul both beseeches and admonishes them to cease their arguing. He doesn't use his apostolic authority but addresses them as friends and coworkers for the Kingdom.
So often pride, stubbornness, and ambition get in the way of reconciliation. These two women had not been pulling together and both were equally at fault. They were also poor examples to the other members of the Philippi church. For God's work to be accomplished, peace and unity must be preserved. It is inconsistent for two believers to be at variance when they are in Christ. Christians should be able to resolve their differences, for the Scriptural cure for an unhappy disagreement is natural, simple, and easy.
Collect for the Day
Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing that you have made and forgive the sins of all those who are penitent: create and make in us new and contrite hearts that we, worthily lamenting our sins and acknowledging our wretchedness, may receive from you, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.