Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“I am hard pressed between the two: my desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better; but to remain in the flesh is more necessary for you.”
NL Daily Devotion for Monday, May 23, 2022
by Dr. Kimberly Leetch, Clergy Stuff
Now, I do not think Paul was suicidal. To consider such a thing would have gone against everything Paul believed in. Still, if I received this message today from someone I loved, I would be concerned. Essentially Paul was telling the community of believers in Philippi that his life was very difficult, and that he would not mind if Christ took him to be with him; but Paul also knew that the community of believers needed him here, and so for them he would fight to carry on.
Today we understand that suicide is not a sin one commits; it is the symptom of a brain disease (depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, other mental illnesses) that can be treated and/or managed. You may even notice that news reports have shifted their reporting from “committed suicide” to “died by suicide.” To shift the blame from a person to an illness makes room for the person to seek help.
There is so much that can be said on this topic, but none more important than this: if you or someone you love suffers from a mental illness that can lead to suicide, get help. Paul found help in his purpose—to remain in flesh for the people that needed him. We can find help in many places. You need not face this alone.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Hours: Available 24 hours. Languages: English, Spanish.
800-273-8255
