[The Epistle of Philemon] Rewards of Faith and Loveনমুনা

Community

Human beings are social creatures; this means we are created to live in society. If we look up the word “community” in the Collins English Dictionary, we will find it defined as “a social group of any size whose members reside in a specific locality, share government, and often have a common cultural and historical heritage.” This indicates that community is an inherent aspect of our nature.

What do we mean when we say that “community” is a reward of faith and love?

In the final verses of Paul’s letter to Philemon, we find several names: Epaphras, Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke. Each of these names represents the story of a transformed life and a role within the burgeoning church, born from faith in Jesus Christ:

● Epaphras, perhaps imprisoned alongside Paul for preaching Christ;

● Mark, also known as John Mark, who reconciled with Paul, and was now active in the work of ministry

● Aristarchus, who went with Paul in his voyages

● Demas, who later abandoned Paul; and

● Luke, the historian, who was recording the deeds of Paul and fellow believers at that time

Though they all came from different places, their shared belief in Christ united them. Their faith served as the bedrock that laid the foundation for a community engaged in Christian labor.

Believers worldwide, irrespective of their origins or backgrounds, find unity through faith in Jesus Christ. He enables us to be part of a community where joy, peace, and solace are found.

Each person serves as a link connecting with others who, in turn, bridge connections to even more individuals, forming a network that spans the globe. Engaging in spiritual conversation with other believers, even with no prior acquaintance, ignites a connection allowing the exchange of Christ’s love. We are the body of Christ, the church, and a part of this community through Jesus’ grace.

Any assembly of believers that is adhering to Jesus’ command to love one another, allowing the Spirit to shape them, will inevitably bear the fruits of love and joy. Jesus poured out: this is what Christian community is all about.

Lord, empower me to obediently demonstrate Your love to others. Allow me to see myself as an essential part of the vast community that is Your church. Let me not love the world, but rather love Your work and Your people.

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