The Journey 1/11/11

I was reading in Philemon this morning. It is a letter from Paul to Philemon. It seems that Paul wrote most of his letters from some kind of prison or tough situation. His letter to Philemon was from prison and it was to ask for some help. He wanted Philemon to receive Onesimus. He said to Philemon, "Onesimus hasn't been of much use to you in the past, but now he is very useful to both of us".

Those words make me think that Philemon and Onesimus had some conflict at one time. Onesimus was a slave and it seems had run away from Philemon.

Philemon 17-18 So if you consider me your partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. If he has wronged you in any way or owes you anything, charge it to me.

This verse may give us some insight as to what the problem was. (see bold)

As we travel the journey we are on, people go in and out of our lives. Some go out because they move away, have conflict, some pass away and others just drift away. Some come into our lives because of church or job or some other cross road.

Let's think today of those who have gone out of your life because of conflict. We have all heard this statement, "people change". That is so true. Here Onesimus had evidently changed in some form or fashion. He was willing to be sent back to Philemon and also Philemon would have to make some changes to receive him back.

Onesimus was coming back with different attitude, Philemon 16 He is no longer like a slave to you. He is more than a slave, for he is a beloved brother, especially to me. Now he will mean much more to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord.

Perhaps today it is time to try and reconnect with someone where there was conflict or disagreement. Maybe things have changed. That person that has drifted out of your life because of conflict at one time was an important part of your life.

This may be the time to make the choice and effort and bring reconciliation between you and someone else.

Blessings.