sharing and refreshment

Good morning sisters and brothers,
We're back safe and sound in Rochester with a great trip behind us, thanks be to God! This morning we begin the short but fascinating letter to Philemon. Paul wrote this letter to a leader in the church named Philemon because it seems Philemon's slave Onesimus had escaped and run to Paul. Paul appeals to Philemon to forgive and release Onesimus. The letter is interesting on several different levels. Paul gets a lot of flack for his support of oppressive institutions like slavery and male power. Here we see a different side of his thinking about slavery. Still, there isn't the clear condemnation of slavery we wish there was, but there is a subtle challenge to it. The letter is also interesting because of how Paul makes his argument, as we'll see tomorrow.

Paul begins with a greeting to a leader who helped the church grow and apparently hosted a church in his home. We hear how Paul rejoices for the ministry Philemon has already done and hopes his faith will keep growing. Notice too how he mentions his imprisonment right away. Since we've been thinking a lot lately about sharing, I also noticed Paul's prayer about Philemon's faith sharing. I hope these words will begin your day with encouragement as you look ahead to your sharing and ministry for the weekend.

God bless,
Sam


Philemon 1:1-7
1Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother,
To Philemon our dear friend and co-worker, 2to Apphia our sister, to Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church in your house:
3Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

4When I remember you in my prayers, I always thank my God 5because I hear of your love for all the saints and your faith toward the Lord Jesus. 6I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective when you perceive all the good that we may do for Christ. 7I have indeed received much joy and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, my brother.