THANKFUL FOR SERVING BRETHREN

“GREET the BRETHREN who are in Laodicea, and Nymphas and the church that is in his house” – Colossians 4:15

Along with Family and Friends, let’s be THANKFUL for SERVING BRETHREN – co-labourers in God’s Vinyard: “GREET the BRETHREN who are in Laodicea, and Nymphas and the church that is in his house” (Col.4:15). Paul began this closing chapter of the epistle, writing: “Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving” (v.2). Prayer without thanksgiving shows lack of spiritual vigilance! He not only offered thanksgiving to God, he gave all-inclusive appreciations to Ministry Helpers, recognizing them as blessings from God.

If in this life we’re privileged with trusted friends or faithful ministry helpers, we are blessed beyond all measure! This passage reveals three features of Paul's partnerships: They were anchored in Christ; developed in share experiences; and nurtured in the storms of life. Three Jews (Aristarchus, Mark, Justus) and some Gentiles (Epaphras, Luke, Demas) – all from different backgrounds (Doctor Luke, Pastor Epaphras, Fugitive Onesimus, and fellowship-leader Nympha), were brought together by the common experience of Grace through our Lord Jesus. Their partnership was anchored in relationship to Christ! When we come to Him, amazing thing happens: people who were enemies because of nationality and religious background, become friends. The gospel builds bridges over ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic divisions.

Worldly barriers lose their significance when our focus is Jesus. Hitherto total strangers who just met, begin to pray, weep, and laugh together. Why? Because we share: a common confession – sinners in need of grace; a common confidence that the blood of Christ cleanses us from sin and frees us from our just condemnation; a common hope that we will live forever in God's kingdom as His children; a common passion to share the gospel with the lost and perishing; and a common desire to serve the Lord and one another. These should bind us together! Our closest friends should be our brethren in Christ. Let’s look around the sanctuary, think of the believers in our community, and give thanks.

Paul, Tychicus and Epaphras had shared interest as fellow labourers. Tychicus traveled with Paul to Jerusalem, carrying an offering for the church. This “beloved brother, faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord," carried this letter the church in Colosse, scaling rugged terrain to bring word from Paul (v.7). Epaphras was another ministry partner-friend. He brought Paul word in Rome, of happenings in Colosse. Paul respected his ministry and admired the way he prayed fervently for his congregation, even while being separated from them (vv.12-13). This is the value of getting involved in ministry; as we serve together, we grow together. Even Onesimus, a run-away slave became a brother!

Finally, let’s thank God for partnerships forged through life’s trials! Aristarchus – a fellow prisoner, Mark and Justus were the only Jews who stood with Paul, unafraid to be linked with him (vv.10-11; Acts 19:28-29). Tough times unveil true partners! Paul’s appreciations should stimulate us to list our brethren among our richest blessings.