DAILY READING
REFLECTION
Pay it Forward
by Beth Voltmann
Paul was in Corinth when he wrote his epistle to the believers in Rome. Having never met them in person, he shared his passion for the Gospel of Christ. To add a personal touch, he concluded his letter with a list of those he called sisters and brothers, co-workers and friends—the Church. In this register of names, we realize that Paul intimately knew the value of each member of the body of Christ, shoulder to shoulder, serving side by side, "neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor male and female." (Galatians 3:28)
“I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae. I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of his people and to give her any help she may need from you, for she has been the benefactor of many people, including me.” (Romans 16:1-2)
Phoebe’s name and description in Scripture indicate that she was a Gentile believer from the area of Corinth who was known for living her faith generously. Perhaps wealthy, she tirelessly served others with her time and most likely, her treasure. Theologians agree that Phoebe was the likely courier of Paul’s epistle to Rome. Take a glance at the map in your Bible—Corinth to Rome would have been quite a distance for a woman to travel during that era!
She served with a heart of generosity.
Paul valued her.
God used her.
The Gospel spread.
The Church grew.
Can you name someone who has blessed you? A person with a heart of generosity? A believer who pours out for others? How might God be asking you to pay it forward? In what way could you bless those who have blessed you? Have you noticed somebody at work, in the neighborhood, or at church who needs a generous welcome? Is there anybody who could use a visit? A little extra help with the monthly bills? Perhaps even the gift of a power washer for a day? Go ahead—bless them. Generosity of spirit is contagious and life-giving.
PRAYER
Father, thank you for the generous gift of your Son, Jesus, and the mercy that you daily pour out to us. May we live “in a way worthy of your people.” May others see our love and generosity and know that we are God’s Church, disciples of Jesus Christ and one in the Spirit. Amen.
