Paul’s
letter to Philemon is short, but power-packed! Not only does Paul transform the
master-slave relationship, but he also demonstrates a very personal dimension
of the Christian faith that has amazing ramifications for Christian leadership.
It is crucial that the hearts of the
Lord’s people are refreshed (Philemon 7). What does this mean?
It is used in Mark’s gospel when Jesus invites his apostles
to come away with him to a quiet place and receive refreshment of food and rest
(Mark 6:31). In Matthew’s gospel it is part of Jesus’ great invitation: “Come
to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you
refreshment/rest”(Matthew 11:28). The apostle Paul reveals to the Corinthian
church how much he was encouraged to see how happy Titus was because his spirit
had been refreshed by that church (2 Corinthians 7:13). Finally, Paul issues a
challenge to Philemon to refresh his heart again, knowing that he will go above
and beyond what is expected, being confident of Philemon’s obedience (Philemon
20, 21).Being spiritually, emotionally, and mentally refreshed is the
direct result of encouragement!
·
Sometimes
we need to find a quiet place to get away from the rat race for food and rest.
·
Sometimes
we need to come to Jesus as we answer his great invitation.
·
Sometimes
we are encouraged just by seeing how others are refreshed!
·
Sometimes
our hearts are refreshed just by watching how others love, obey, and go above
and beyond the call of duty!
Think of how all of this is crucial for the ongoing dynamic
of vital Christian leadership and servanthood. As leaders we need to care for
ourselves and make sure that we teach and lead from a quiet place. Henri Nouwen
calls it the “quiet stream underneath.” Only when that stream is fed by the
Spirit of the living God can those waters be fresh and invigorating. Leading
and serving from a “quiet place” allows us to not be in a “knee-jerk reaction”
mode, rather we prayerfully anticipate and discerningly respond.
As leaders we personally understand Jesus’ invitation to come
to Him when we are weak and burdened. Serving and leading takes a lot out of
the caring Christian leader. Jesus’ yoke is easy because it is not tied to
something unhealthy or destructive. Jesus’ burden is light because He helps
shoulder the load. He does not put His thumb down on us as a means of control
and manipulation.
As leaders we are encouraged when we see others being
refreshed and revitalized in their own calling. Encouragement is infectious! It
is gives us great joy to see others encouraged.
Finally, as leaders we are ourselves encouraged when we see
living and practical examples of brothers and sisters in Christ joyfully going
above and beyond the call of duty. Just this afternoon, as I am writing this,
someone came into my office and described themselves as “church caulk.” What a
wonderful concept! They are willing to fill in the chinks and cracks where and
when any situation arises where a volunteer is needed. “Church caulk” only
happens when a person is willing to be dispensed by the heart of Jesus!
Let us encourage one another so that we, too, can enjoy the
benefits and blessings of being refreshed. Freshness of soul and encouragement
of spirit is like a magnet to the weary. May God give us the wisdom and His
Spirit to take this seriously!
In Christian love, Curtis
x
