So, if you consider me your partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. If he has wronged you in any way, or owes you anything, charge that to my account.” vss. 17-18
Philemon 17-24
What a gift this letter is for us! It’s likely the only piece of personal correspondence to make it into scripture, and its inclusion gives us a glimpse of Paul’s everyday life.
He has grown to love Onesimus and considers him a brother in Christ, and now he would love to have Philemon set him free from slavery. He even promises to repay any debts that Onesimus might owe. It’s an indicator of the depth of Paul’s love. This is how it works for all who bear the name of Christ. We know that Jesus has enjoined us to love one another as he has loved us, and we readily accept this as a generic commandment for how we shall live in this world. But it’s when the generic becomes specific that Christ is honored! Sometimes, many times even, we find ourselves in a position to show our love for a particular person, often to the point of sacrifice. It’s in these moments that the depth of our love, and the authenticity of our faith is really tested. Sometimes the cost of such loving can be dear and even influence our cash reserves. There’s always a risk in loving, one that Paul gladly accepted, and as we continue to walk in the way of Jesus, we too will regularly make risky choices.
Thought for the Day: When have I taken risks in loving?
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