Philippians 2:25–30 : Giving Honor
Philippians 2:25–30
I have thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, and your messenger and minister to my need, for he has been longing for you all and has been distressed because you heard that he was ill. Indeed he was ill, near to death. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. I am the more eager to send him, therefore, that you may rejoice at seeing him again, and that I may be less anxious. So receive him in the Lord with all joy, and honor such men, for he nearly died for the work of Christ, risking his life to complete what was lacking in your service to me.
Dwell:
Epaphroditus - what a name! I mean, “Norrie” is not exactly a conventional name, but Epaphroditus? That’s on another level. Jokes aside, this man was truly remarkable, a man. He wasn’t just a name in a letter; he was a brother, a fellow worker, and a soldier for Christ.
Epaphroditus risked his life to fulfill the mission of Christ - a mission unlike any other. This isn’t just another noble cause; it was the cause, the only mission worth giving everything for. His self-sacrifice, his courage, and his faithfulness exemplify the kind of life that deserves recognition.
Paul tells us to honor people like Epaphroditus. When was the last time you saw someone honored for their faith? I recall a recent moment at our church - a special time when we paused to acknowledge those who have faithfully served Christ. It was moving and humbling to see their courage and sacrifices celebrated.
But let’s be honest, we could probably all grow in how we acknowledge such courage and sacrifice. Too often, these people - those who quietly suffer, serve, and lay down their lives for Christ - go unnoticed. Yet they are the ones who remind us that there is joy in suffering and joy in living selflessly for Christ’s sake.
These are the selfless, humble servants who emulate Christ with their lives. Let’s not only honor them but also strive to follow their example as they follow Christ. Honor such people, and in doing so, keep your eyes on the mission that matters most.
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