Philemon 1:8-9 Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love….
Commentary credits this book with the abolition of the institution of slavery, and while I disagree with that idea based on history, I fully concur that Paul, in this short letter, is giving us an excellent example of how to love others as Jesus loves.
Philemon 1:12-13 I am sending him—who is my very heart—back to you. I would have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in helping me while I am in chains for the gospel.
Loving like Jesus involves humility. It takes humility to put pride aside if you have been wronged. Loving like Jesus involves sacrifice—forgoing the satisfaction of “getting even,” “settling the score” for whatever has been taken, broken, damaged.
Philemon 1:17 So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me.
Lord, Thank You for this example of Your love in action. Loving like You is not easy. It’s not without sacrifice, but it is beautiful and restorative and edifying. Help us to put aside our prideful tendencies and love like You. Always. Amen.
Philemon 1:18 If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me.
Have a blessed day.