There are certain slogans and taglines that capture our attention and fire up our imagination. “Just do it” reminds us of Nike and pursuing excellence in athletic competitions. “Have it your way” calls to mind Burger King and the options available for their burger and fry combos. “Let’s go places” is a phrase by Toyota to emphasize the reliability and transportability of their vehicles.
Those are just three examples that are applicable to the companies and the products that they promote and to life in general. Within sacred Scripture there are seemingly endless options of passages that could become slogans and taglines for our faith journey.
One of the most compelling examples can be found in Philippians 4:13, which is often cited as, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” That is certainly the message from the second reading for Mass for the 28th Sunday of Ordinary Time. It is helpful to be aware of the context of that letter and why that particular phrase has such sacred significance.
Its author — St. Paul — by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit wrote the letter while he was in prison. Another often-cited passage from the same chapter is “Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice!” (Phil 4:4). Such audacious words from a rather ignominious place are truly remarkable. And yet they were sincerely offered by St. Paul because he was convicted that physical imprisonment and the sufferings of this life “are nothing compared to knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” (Phil 3:8).
Perhaps it goes without saying — but I will say it all the same — as Christians, our journey of discipleship is more than just slogans and catchy taglines and meaningful phrases. It is ultimately about an ever-expansive relationship with Jesus Christ in conjunction with members of his mystical body the Church. Be that as it may, it is nonetheless helpful for us to have particular words to live by like those found in Philippians 4:13. When we have hardships and challenges and unexpected difficulties come our way, we can rest assured that God will provide for us in our time of need.
May the Lord give us the grace and the strength to go places in this life and just do it, not necessarily making it about us to have it our way, but rather so that it would ultimately be for God’s greater glory.
Father Peterson is pastor of St. Odilia in Shoreview. He can be contacted via email at fr.james@st.odilia.org.
Sunday, Oct. 15
Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
