During an age of persecution, suffering, internal strife, and fighting, the Philippian church stood out like a beacon of the way things could be! This group of Christians in ancient Philippi, whom the apostle Paul describes as his "joy and crown" (Phil. 4:1), were especially supportive of him through their financial help, prayer, and commitment to spreading the good news of Jesus. Though written to first-century Christians, Paul's letter to the Philippians is timeless. It speaks to believers everywhere of standing firm in the faith, living in humility and unity with other believers, and shining together like stars for the cause of Christ in this dark world. Even though he was in prison at the time, Paul also discusses contentment and grasping the peace and joy we can experience in Jesus Christ, whatever the circumstances.