‘Meanwhile, I thought I should send Epaphroditus back to you. He is a true brother, co-worker, and fellow soldier. And he was your messenger to help me in my need. I am sending him because he has been longing to see you, and he was very distressed that you heard he was ill. And he certainly was ill; in fact, he almost died. But God had mercy on him—and also on me, so that I would not have one sorrow after another. So I am all the more anxious to send him back to you, for I know you will be glad to see him, and then I will not be so worried about you. Welcome him in the Lord’s love and with great joy, and give him the honor that people like him deserve. ‘ Philippians 2:25-29 (NLT)
Day 4
Since we have one heavenly Father, Jesus’s followers consider each other brothers and sisters. This is especially clear in the letters of his first followers.
Pray
Lord Jesus, I want my relationships to be deeper, more loving, and more focused on you. Would you provide for me in this area?
Read
The apostle Paul writes a letter of encouragement to a church community.
Philippians 2:25-29
Reflect
What emotions do you sense in this passage? What are some of the words the writer (Paul) uses to describe Epaphroditus? How would you characterize the relationships between Paul, Epaphroditus, and the community of people receiving this letter?
Respond
Many church communities try to imitate Paul and the first Christians by developing deep, vulnerable and self-sacrificing relationships. That’s never easy, but it’s one of the most important ways that God cares for his people. Are you a part of a local church? If so, how can you serve the people there? If not, ask God to show you how he wants you to move forward in this area.
from Loneliness