Sharing the Word

Paul acknowledges that religion can be a source of gain, but spiritual gain. Perhaps we should ask ourselves what we hope to gain from our religious practices.

Paul’s basic instruction to Timothy is that the leader must not stand still but must progress and so provide encouragement for others.

The sorrows of Mary do not find their significance in the pain that they caused Mary, but rather in the faithfulness that they expressed. Jesus calls us to faithfulness also.

Prayer for everybody is important because God wants everybody to be saved. Everybody should pray for everybody for the spread of the salvation offered for everybody.

Being a follower of Christ is about being saved from sin. That’s what Paul’s life has been about: displaying the mercy of Christ. Paul is an example of what it means to be a beneficiary of Christ’s saving power.

We have all been called to serve Christ, and like Paul's, our calling is not something we have deserved. It’s pure gift, and calls for our gratitude.