So, if you consider me your partner, welcome him as you would welcome me (vs. 17)
As we conclude this week, we consider these words from Paul.
We notice that Paul's appeals to his partnership with Philemon. We don't always use this word in our Christian communities, but perhaps we should.
The congregation I serve is in partnership with me and each other in the work of living and loving like Jesus. Being partners means that we have shared interest and shared investment in our ministry. In other words, we are all in this together. Martin Luther calls this the priesthood of all believers,
Being partners allows us, expects us even, to call each other to live into the Way of Jesus. Paul invites Philemon to respond in a different way that the Roman world expects and sanctions. Paul reminds Phielmon of the unity we share in Christ.
It is interesting that later in the letter, Paul asks Philemon to make up a room for him so he can visit. This tells me that partnership means something to Paul.
He is asking Philemon to accept a difficult challenge. But Paul is also willing to come and help him do it. This model, a willingness to truly walk with another amidst a difficulty, as partners, as brothers and sisters in Christ, remains the model for Christian community.
Loving Jesus, help us to live and love following the example of Paul and Philemon. Amen.
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