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Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus: To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons.
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Philippians 1:1-2 CSB
Paul is in lockdown. 
He's in his bubble with Timothy and most likely literally chained to a Roman guard.
He's been in prison several times, Clement, an writer from this period says he was locked up seven times.
As you consider that and our current circumstances, let's see what Paul is up to and how that might help us this week:
Paul's view towards Jesus remains unchanged. He wrote in Romans 8 that nothing can separate us from God's love, and here his opening words are about who he is in Jesus. 
He does not allow his circumstances to determine who he is in Jesus.
No matter what I think of Covid, vaccines, or our government response, Paul reminds me to start with my relationship with Jesus. 
Paul did not allow his circumstances to dictate who he was in Jesus, and we can do the same. He is Redeemer, Saviour, the giver and sustainer of Life, friend, King, God, healer, restorer...and our relationship with him can cover a whole range of things.
But today Paul reminds us that it is not determined by our circumstances. 
#belikePaul
#Jesusatthecentre
#nothingcanseparateusfromhislove
#dearlyloved
#childrenofGod

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