Good morning, brothers and sisters.
Our verse for today comes from Philippians 2:25, “Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labor, and fellow soldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my needs.”
During the 1980 NBA finals, the center for the Los Angeles Lakers injured his ankle and was unable to play in Game 6. Magic Johnson, a 6’9″ rookie who played point guard for the Lakers, altered his role in that game and played some of the time at center. In fact, before the game was over, he had played all five positions, and ended up with 42 points, 15 rebounds, and 7 assists. His performance in that game helped him earn the Most Valuable Player award for the finals, and some people point to that game as the defining moment highlighting Johnson’s versatility and skill. Well, just as Johnson was noted for his versatility on the court, Paul notes his fellow believer, Epaphroditus, as being a man who was many things to many people. He first calls him his brother. Paul says that he was sending to the Philippians one who was dear to him, one whom Paul would say was family. It is good to be reminded that we as believers are part of the same family. We are not just friends who gather a couple times a week, but we belong to each other. Are you a dependable brother or sister, or just a weekly friend or acquaintance?
Next, Paul calls him a companion in labor. They had been alongside of each other, doing the work that needed to be done. Their hands had gotten dirty together, the burden had been shared, and things had been accomplished as they labored. Are you a companion in the Lord’s work, or just standing off observing or avoiding? And then Paul calls him his fellow soldier. Little is done by the lone ranger. We gain courage and strength when we know we are battling together, praying for each other. Don’t let those on the battle lines stand alone. Finally, Paul says Epaphroditus was their messenger and Paul’s minister. In doing the labor, in being a brother, by fighting together, he blessed Paul and the Philippians. He shared the Word, he met Paul’s needs. He did what was needed. Let’s do at least as much for our Savior.
As we seek Him today, be the brother, sister, father or mother that Christ wants you to be. Be the servant, minister, encourager and laborer that Jesus has called you to be.
Have a great Wednesday.
#4 Rich Holt
Dad of Ripken, Koy, TrishaJean, Samantha, Kakie Holiday and Raleigh
Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them.
