This post by kathylarkman was originally published at GRACE PLACE
10My fellow prisoner Aristarchus sends you his greetings, as does Mark, the cousin of Barnabas. (You have received instructions about him; if he comes to you, welcome him.) 11Jesus, who is called Justus, also sends greetings. These are the only Jews among my co-workers for the kingdom of God, and they have proved a comfort to me. 12Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured. 13I vouch for him that he is working hard for you and for those at Laodicea and Hierapolis. 14Our dear friend Luke, the doctor, and Demas send greetings. 15Give my greetings to the brothers and sisters at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house. 16After this letter has been read to you, see that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea. 17Tell Archippus: “See to it that you complete the ministry you have received in the LORD.” 18I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you. COLOSSIANS 4:10-18
Prayer:
As we conclude our praying of Colossians for the summer, may it bear great fruit in our lives; that we may continue pray your Word more and more for it is Your will for our lives. Thank you for all the examples of the close ‘one anothering’ in this passage. Thank you for their radical commitments of discipleship, reconciliation, comfort, encouragement, generosity, hospitality, and long-term perseverance. We also thank you for Epaphras who shows us the importance of praying for the church; and to pray focusing on God’s priorities. Finally, thank you for Paul, whose writing this letter from prison reminds us of his willingness to suffer. Cause us to be shaped to live out out our Christianity in the ways of these early Christians.
To the One Who gives us all we need for life and godliness,
Jesus Christ our Lord, our everything!