Word for the day: "Be Reconciled"
Philemon 1:10 (NIV) That I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains. 11 Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has become useful both to you and to me. 12 I am sending him, who is my very heart, back to you. 13 I would have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in helping me while I am in chains for the gospel.
One of the hidden treasures in the Bible is the Book of Philemon. Actually, it’s more of a letter than a book, and maybe even more of a text message than a letter if we look with 21st century context. It’s only twenty-five verses long, but the truth it tells is truly timeless.
Basically, its Paul writing from prison to a friend named Philemon. Now Philemon had a servant named Onesimus who had run away and evidently done something deserving of punishment. Through a series of divine twists and turns, Onesimus comes into contact with Paul in prison. And the discovery is eventually made that they both know Philemon! Paul then responds as a Spiritual parent and leader.
We don’t have all the details, but it’s not hard to imagine Paul helping Onesimus to see God’s will for him; to go back to the one he’d wronged, apologize, and ask for forgiveness. Is there someone close to you? Maybe in your past, present or future, you need to be reconciled with?
Although it must have been a hard decision to make, Onesimus decides to do the right thing by returning to his former master(Spiritual parent, Leader in the Lord) So Paul writes this letter explaining how God’s gracious hand has been at work in Onesimus’ life, and sends it along with him to present to Philemon. It’s a powerful way of encouraging Philemon to forgive, even as God in Christ has forgiven us. (Parents must always show a heart of forgiveness to their children)
What a powerful picture of the reconciliation that can happen when the Lord is involved in our lives! Does your family, Church, or even friendships need to be reconciled? God often accomplishes a wonderful work of reconciliation that withstands the test of time. Have a wonderful weekend!
Prayer: Auspicious God in this moment move by your spirit and cause the hearts of family, friends, and even foes to be reconciled in your divine will. Let your will be done in our lives today in Jesus name Amen!
Elder Baker