“Tychicus will give you a full report about how I am getting along. He is a beloved brother and faithful helper who serves with me in the Lord’s work. I have sent him to you for this very purpose—to let you know how we are doing and to encourage you. I am also sending Onesimus, a faithful and beloved brother, one of your own people. He and Tychicus will tell you everything that’s happening here. Aristarchus, who is in prison with me, sends you his greetings, and so does Mark, Barnabas’s cousin. As you were instructed before, make Mark welcome if he comes your way. Jesus (the one we call Justus) also sends his greetings. These are the only Jewish believers among my co-workers; they are working with me here for the Kingdom of God. And what a comfort they have been! Epaphras, a member of your own fellowship and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends you his greetings. He always prays earnestly for you, asking God to make you strong and perfect, fully confident that you are following the whole will of God. I can assure you that he prays hard for you and also for the believers in Laodicea and Hierapolis. Luke, the beloved doctor, sends his greetings, and so does Demas. Please give my greetings to our brothers and sisters at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church that meets in her house. After you have read this letter, pass it on to the church at Laodicea so they can read it, too. And you should read the letter I wrote to them. And say to Archippus, “Be sure to carry out the ministry the Lord gave you.” Here is my greeting in my own handwriting—Paul. Remember my chains. May God’s grace be with you.”
Colossians 4:7-18 NLT
We are not called to walk alone. As we do the Lord's work, we grow an incredible bond with our partners in ministry. Paul had so many people that he was connected with, amazing co-workers who encouraged and supported him. They also did amazing ministry on their own. There was a church planting movement in the area of Colossae: this church had been planted from Ephesus and partnered together to plant at least two other churches (Laodicea and Hieropolis). They were all connected to each other, and this connection made their ministry stronger.
For many people, their deepest hurts in life have been from a pastor or a co-worker in ministry. A deep bond is formed, and when hurt happens, it cuts deeply. Many get so hurt that they never serve again. When we are hurt, we must find a way to be healed by Christ, connect with others, and serve again. We are not meant to walk or serve alone.
What are you doing to form deep bonds with other Christians? How is your life making a difference in the church and for God’s mission?
