The Secret of Contentment

Paul writes from prison that he has "learned the secret of being content in any and every situation." This isn't passive resignation or toxic positivity, but the deep spiritual resource that comes from knowing that in Christ, we have enough strength to face whatever comes—including the long, sometimes discouraging work of justice and love.

The famous "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" isn't about athletic achievement or personal success, but about finding the spiritual stamina for sustained engagement with the work of love. It's about contentment that fuels action rather than passivity, finding joy in the work even when outcomes are uncertain, and discovering how community becomes a source of strength for the long haul.

This sermon addresses both individual sustainability (putting on our perspectacles to see the sacred in the ordinary, taking off our shoes to experience simple presence) and community resilience for justice work. When we know we're held by the all-sufficient love of God, we can give generously, act courageously, and keep going even when the road is long and the progress feels slow.