ONESIMUS AND US

Baca: Philemon 1:8-22

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Bacaan tahunan: Matthew 20-21

In his letter addressed to Philemon, Paul asked him to be willing to accept someone as he would accept himself (verse 17). The person referred to is Onesimus, a slave who ran away after causing him loss. If Philemon still regrets the great loss, he may charge it all to Paul (verse 18).

Imagine many people at that time were amazed to see how Paul defended a slave. In fact, even further is God's action for us, a lump of sin-stained dust! He planned a redemption work that involved Jesus, His only Son (John 3:16). In that work it was established that Jesus died on the cross. He had to bear the weight of the pain of hanging on a rough wooden cross, with His hands and feet nailed. In addition, He was previously whipped, slapped, and humiliated (John 19:1-3). Moreover, He was forced to walk quite a distance to the place of crucifixion, carrying the cross on His shoulders (John 19:17). The whole world was stunned, unable to say a word.

Through Paul, Onesimus was praised as a very useful person (verse 11). While he was in prison, Onesimus was the one who served him (verse 13). This proves that Onesimus understood how lucky he was to receive Paul's kindness. How much more fortunate we are by the abundance of God's grace. So, don't we long to be very useful individuals for the Kingdom of God? Aren't we enthusiastic about showing love to others and reaching out to souls?
-LIN/www.renunganharian.net

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THE IMMENSE FORTUNE WE HAVE RECEIVED BECAUSE GOD IS WILLING TO DECLARE HIS LOVE TO US

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