Seeds Of Hope Daily Devotional: The Gamblers
In the Middle Ages there was a group of men who called themselves The Gamblers. Wherever there was sickness or suffering, plagues or pestilence they would take their lives into their own hands - gamble against all odds - to help others. They willingly gambled with their lives for the good of others.
But they
were not the first to do this. The Apostle Paul talks about one of his
co-workers: Epaphroditus. In speaking of him, he wrote, “he risked his life for
the work of Christ and he was at the point of death while trying to do for me
the things you couldn’t do because you were far away.”
We do not
know very much about Epaphroditus. We do know that he delivered money to Paul
while he was in prison. We do know that he helped Paul during a time of great
physical and financial need. We do know that he became sick while he was
staying with Paul. And we do know that Paul trusted him to deliver a most
important “thank-you” letter to the church at Philippi.
The world
honors those who are recognized for being rich, athletic, wealthy,
entertaining, and intelligent. But here we see God recognizing and honoring a
servant. And Paul also said, “Welcome him with Christian love, great joy, and
be sure to honor people like him.” A simple servant, honored eternally, for
taking a risk for God.
Prayer:
We are reminded, Lord, of those who do for You what few are willing
to do. Thank You for the missionaries who serve You quietly. Honor them
greatly. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Welcome him in the
Lord’s love and with great joy, and give him the honor that people like him
deserve. Philippians 2:25-30
