“I rejoice at the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus… for they refreshed my spirit.” (1Cor.16:17-18). Jesus, the Good Shepherd… “restores, refreshes, renews my soul” (Psalm 23:3)
Lord Jesus, “Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus” … three brothers we’ll enjoy in the new heaven and new earth, but three names we usually “skim through” to get to the “meaty” parts of a chapter in the Bible.
But they themselves were “prime cuts”—the Kobe beef and “Wagyu Cowboy Steak” of friends. (For my vegetarian friends, insert your favorite fruits and veggies). The Apostle Paul said of them, “I am always glad to see these brothers come through the door, for they bring refreshment to my spirit. They have the “knack,” body-language, and heart for giving me encouragement when I need it the most.”
Jesus, thank you for our version of refreshing brothers like Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus; and sisters of encouragement, such as Phoebe, Priscilla, Mary, and Junia (All in Rom.16). They bring no pressure, just your non-anxious presence. They’re the kinds of friends whose names we love to see come up on a text or call. They’re more likely to ask, “How can I help you?”, as opposed to “Aren’t you finished yet?” We don’t just treasure those kinds of friends; we want to be that friend to others as well. Work in us and love through us.
For you, Jesus, are the headwater, river, and fountain of the sweetest, most satisfying, perfectly timed refreshment. “Flickering wicks and crushed reeds” love it when you show up. When you “come through the door,” nobody feels they need to tidy the desk, feign okay-ness, or “present well.” You are near and dear to the brokenhearted, weary, and heavily burdened. Thank. You. Jesus. Be all of that to us, and through us, this very day. So Very Amen.