For he longs for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill.
Philippians 2:26 NIV
Sharing in the Needs of Others
Canada is facing a caregiving crisis at a massive scale. Caregivers and care providers are not sufficiently supported, and they are struggling. Our population is aging, with every year bringing more people needing care and fewer people available to provide that care. People, including those with disabilities, are living longer and have more complex care needs, but caregivers and care providers are already stretched to a breaking point. Caregivers are everywhere, and without them, Canada’s health and social systems would collapse.
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If you were around back when Psalty the Songbook was popular with children, you will perhaps remember the words about being a servant – “make me a servant, humble and meek, Lord, let me lift up, those who are weak.” This is the prayer of a true servant of Jesus, and there is perhaps none greater than Epaphroditus, the Philippi-sent brother that Paul mentions in Philippians 2:26: “For he longs for all of you and is distressed because you heard he was ill.” Epaphroditus was sick, near death even, yet his concern wasn’t for his own suffering. He was distressed because others were worried about him. That’s the kind of selfless love Christ calls us to embody. It’s a love that reflects Jesus Himself, who humbled Himself for our sake. In a world that often celebrates self-promotion and independence, this verse reminds us of the quiet strength in compassion and connection. When we truly love others, their burdens become our own. Their peace becomes our prayer. Today, let’s ask God to give us hearts like Epaphroditus—hearts that long for others, that are moved by love, and that reflect the humility of Christ.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley