May the Lord grant mercy to the household of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me and was not ashamed of my chains, but when he arrived in Rome he searched for me earnestly and found me. 2 Tim. 1:16-17
Dear Lord Jesus, being married to you places us in a most amazing family—from every nation and period in history. And like every other family, it’s a broken family populated with broken people. But like no other family, it’s a family destined for an eternity of perfection—perfect relationships, perfect everything (1 Cor. 2:9). Thank you for securing such a glorious inheritance for us.
This Scripture names one of our brothers I’d like to be a lot more like before we meet—Onesiphorus, a “repeat refresher” in Paul’s life—a man who paid a significant price to serve and love his friend, even when he was bound by Roman chains. What a great image; what a substantive way to spend one’s life—“often” refreshing others.
Jesus, by your grace, help me to offer much more of a refreshing presence in the lives of my family and friends. I want to be more like you—someone “bruised reeds” welcome from afar—someone tired, weary, spent friends are glad to see coming.
Fill my heart with your mercy. Give me gospel eyes to see others as you see them. Sensitize my spirit with your Spirit. Free me from working hard just to get my “to do” list done. Free me for being way more concerned about my “to love” list.
Jesus, please make me aware today of those who need fresh encouragement—some reason to hope, a concrete manifestation of care, and expression of your great love. It may be at the price of an airline ticket to find them. It may simply be a walk across the street, a drive across town, a face-to-face visit, a hug, a call, an email, or a text—some small thing that might bring a profit beyond my imagining.
Lord Jesus, you searched hard to find us, and you succeeded. No matter what our “imprisonments” have been, you’ve broken our chains and borne our shame. May I offer a refreshing taste of your kindness to others today, no matter what their “chains” may happen to be. So very Amen I pray, in your loving and liberating name.