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Pastoral Care for Bruised Reeds and Smoldering Wicks

“I wish I could be more like Epaphroditus.” That was the sentiment of one group member after our Zoom discussion of Philippians 2. Epaphroditus makes a big impression in spite of only brief references (2:25–30 and 4:18). Paul describes him in glowing terms as “my brother, co-worker and fellow soldier, who is also your messenger, whom you sent to take care of my needs” (2:25). In light of Paul’s words, my friend felt inferior by comparison. But when we read the whole story of Epaphroditus more slowly, a rather different, more human picture emerges. The church in Philippi had sent Epaphroditus to deliver a financial gift and assist Paul while he was in prison. But after Epaphroditus arrived, his health deteriorated rapidly. We aren’t told what his illness was, but he nearly died from it. In his convalescence, Epaphroditus grew extremely homesick. Knowing everyone back in Philippi was worried about his condition only added to his distress.

LIVING IT UP?

living it up? “Yes, God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him may not die but may have eternal life.” John 3:16 Those who believe in Jesus have eternal life (Jn 20:31). Jesus came that we may have life and have it to the full (Jn 10:10). Jesus is the Life (Jn 11:25; 14:6), and He gives life (Jn 5:21). The angel who freed the apostles from prison told them: “Preach to the people all about this new life” (Acts 5:20). This full eternal life is the life of heaven which Christians begin to experience on earth. This life is characterized by publicly witnessing for Jesus and by preaching and teaching. In the risen life, we are powerful enough to be a threat to those in control. We are worthy of being persecuted, even arrested, for Jesus’ sake.

Lessons of Easter 2021: The pandemic the path to glory

Lessons of Easter 2021: The pandemic the path to glory
jamaicaobserver.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from jamaicaobserver.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.

Lessons of Easter 2021: The pandemic the path to glory

Lessons of Easter 2021: The pandemic the path to glory
jamaicaobserver.com - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from jamaicaobserver.com Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.

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