Observation: In his letter to Philemon, Paul gives a greeting, then gives the purpose and body of his letter (the issue of Onesimus). However, in the transition, Paul describes Philemon's faith. He is a person who both actively tells others of Jesus, and reflects of love of Jesus toward others. In this, everyone sees the "wealth of good things" that come into a believer's life. This wealth may in fact be material riches, but more likely - and more importantly - it is this tremendous love and kindness that pours out of Philemon. This is a love so great and that Paul himself has received, and feels that way over and over when he simply recalls and prays for Philemon.
Paul describes this loving kindness as joy and comfort. He calls it refreshing. He states that it touches the hearts of God's people. He calls it a source of good things, and not just a small source but a wealth ... a rich overflowing of goodness. He points out that it grips the lives of others as part of the gospel message.
This is what happens when someone really shows Christ to others. The gospel isn't about a story, it's about a feeling. It is love poured out, and when it is truly the love of Christ it impact people emotionally (joy and comfort), physically (refreshing and overflowing), and spiritually (gripping their very lives). Philemon had a tremendous spiritual gift that manifested in this very way.
Application: Can I - or my church - really impact others this way? I know some of us can, as I have seen people come to Christ with such emotion that it demonstrates this joy and refreshment and overflowing goodness.
Philemon did this with a love that pointed directly back to Jesus. This is the key I need ... to care for others with love, but not a love that is of me, but a love that is of Jesus.
Prayer: Lord, as I serve others, be it on Sunday, or today at work, or in any other activity, may I become a way for your love alone to shine through. May others not see me, but see you alone. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment