John Calvin Commentary Philippians 2:26

"since he longed after you all, and was sore troubled, because ye had heard that he was sick:" — Philippians 2:26 (ASV)

He longed after you. It is a sign of a true pastor that while he was at a great distance and willingly detained by a pious engagement, he was nevertheless moved by concern for his flock and by a longing for them; and upon learning that his sheep were distressed on his account, he was also concerned about their grief. On the other hand, the anxiety of the Philippians for their pastor is revealed here.