First ReadingPhilippians 2:12-18
From the Letter of Paul to the Philippians
12So then, my beloved,even as you have always obeyed,not only in my presence,but now much more in my absence,work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.13For it is God who works in you both to willand to work for his good pleasure.
14Do all things without complaining and arguing,15that you may become blameless and harmless,children of God without defect in the middle of a crookedand perverse generation,among whom you are seen as lights in the world,16holding up the word of life,that I may have something to boast in the day of Christthat I didn’t run in vain nor labor in vain.17Yes, and if I am poured out on the sacrificeand service of your faith,I am glad and rejoice with you all.18In the same way, you also should be gladand rejoice with me.