Philemon 1-25
Dear RTB’ers,
Philemon, Paul’s shortest letter – one chapter, 25 verses, all about one topic, returning a “beloved brother” (v. 16) slave/servant to his owner. It’s nice how Paul says that he could have commanded Philemon to take Onesimus back, presumably with forgiveness, but instead wants Philemon to do that willingly: …but I preferred to do nothing without your consent in order that your goodness might not be by compulsion but of your own accord. (v. 14) One wonders how this incident did finally play out.
One verse struck me: For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you. (v. 7) I was asking myself who in my life has refreshed me (and others) just by knowing him/her. I have a few people in mind. How about you? Do your own heart search and pray for that (those?) person(s).
Blessings.
See also: October 22 (2021) / Philemon 1-25.