I wanted to say a little more about Paul’s verbs in Philippians because it will hopefully lead into more reflections on our actions in this important pre-election year.

There are a number of verbs that Paul uses, all, it seems to me, with the aim of helping his first hearers build vibrant and supportive communities. Some commentators have argued that the key verse in Philippians is 4:2 where Paul urges two key leaders in the movement to agree with one another. This might be a stretch but it is undoubtedly true that community is not formed in division.

Perhaps our politicians would do well to heed this lesson as we enter the rough and tumble of an election campaign and we are asked to decide between policy platforms – often designed to appeal only to our self-interest rather than our desire for better, healthier communities.

So, Paul focuses on a number of doing words, words that advocate actions that build community. He speaks of thinking, walking together, honouring one another, cooperating, trusting (both God and my brothers and sisters), knowing (what matters, especially about Jesus whom we follow), hoping and shining.

To focus on these actions knits us together as communities and enables us to not only build strong communities within our churches but also in our neighbourhoods. So much of Paul’s language is about how we act everywhere we are and not just in our gatherings.

These verbs lead to lifestyle marked by gentleness and humility, service of all but especially those in most ned of support, good works done in genuine love. Such actions are key to rebuilding our broken neighbourhoods, our broken politics.

This does not mean, however, that we are not strident in our analysis and critique of those in power or seeking to be. In a democracy these verbs hold all to account and suggest ways that we might evaluate policy proposals and record in office, as well as forming the basis for policies that can rebuild trust and hope in our maimed body politic.