No, I didn’t sneeze. This deer walked out of the woods right next to me, without fear and grazed. McDonald Woods’ animals never have a fear of humans and walk in front of me. Today, my focus on a certain man, Tychicus, and this deer’s behavior solidified my writing today.
Faithful
In all honesty, a deer walking requires your patience and imagination to find the bridge to Tychicus, but bear with me. The animals, over time, have found humans to be worthy of their trust. Moreover, they have found us to be not a threat. So, rather than bolt at the first sign, they walk side by side, fearless.
We are not given Tychicus’ introduction to Paul in the letters. However, we do have some hints as to the man he was to Paul and to the faithful saints. In the first place, he was worthy of Paul’s trust. He carried the letters and Paul’s messages to the churches. To say nothing of the words Paul used.
Witness
21 Now, so that you may know how I am and what I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord will tell you everything. 22 I have sent him to you for this very purpose, so that you may know how we are, and that he may comfort and encourage and strengthen your hearts. Ephesians 6
Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.
Tychicus:
- Beloved brother and faithful minister
- reporter
- sent
- comfort and encourage and strengthen hearts.
Now what?
Tychicus convicts me to go where I am called, or rather stay. To be present where I am and be faithful to encourage with my words, actions, and deeds. Am I comforting in all of these? My friends, Paul entrusted this man with the spoken word to so many places. We don’t know the beginning or end of his story, God does.
23 Peace be to the [f]brothers and sisters, and love joined with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. 24 Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with undying and incorruptible love. Ephesians 6
Amplified Bible (AMP)Copyright © 2015 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, CA 90631. All rights reserved.
This benediction is not a few happy thoughts. This also convicts and moves me to action. Peace in the midst of my actions, thoughts, and emotions with my family of God. Love is joined with my faith. I can’t just have faith without love. Peace doesn’t come without love and faith. 1 Corinthians anyone? Jesus. This time, right now, we cling to the word with an undying love. HIS love has done that for us.
Peace.
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