Unlike on Sundays, the weekdays" first scripture readings are a series on their own, and don't have any deliberate reference to or echo the gospel of the day. But today it happens there is an interesting cross-over. Both Jesus talking to His disciples, and St Paul writing to his favourite Christian community, are advising on the use of money. Joy and gratitude are a notable feature of Paul's letter to the Philippians. He remembers how much they've helped him financially in his evangelising work, even when others hadn't been able to.

But more relevant to our prayer today is to note his attitude towards life and its hardships, especially regarding having and not having. As he wrote earlier in the same letter, Paul's over-riding desire and passion is to be with Jesus, no matter what else happens: nothing else really counts. He is free to use or not use the good things of creation, free to seek God's will for him and to follow whatever way the Lord points out: "I am ready for anything anywhere, full stomach or empty stomach, poverty or plenty" Pleased as he is with the generous gift received from his friends, what he values most is not the gift itself but the quality of heart, of faith and love that lies behind their gift. In this Paul rejoices, and prays that God may fulfill all their needs as lavishly as only God can. .