Human is what the Body is made of

Scripture Read: Titus 3:12 When I send Artemas or Tychicus to you, make every effort to come to me at Nicopolis, for I have decided to spend the winter there. 13 Diligently help Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their way so that nothing is lacking for them. 14 Our people must also learn to engage in good deeds to meet pressing needs, so that they will not be unfruitful. 15 All who are with me greet you. Greet those who love us in the faith. Grace be with you all.

Application: This is a great ending to a powerful epistle from Paul. It can give us some important insight in our communication with each other. We need to see that Paul always adds a personal touch when dealing with the family. We have no idea how task oriented Paul was but have good reason to believe he was very driven. Yet he always makes sure to connect personally in his writings. We need to remember that although our local Churches are in someway “organizations” we must never forget that first and foremost they are “organisms”. Too many times task oriented people get the job done at out meetings, but the carnage left behind is not glorifying to the Lord. We must remember to connect in love with each other as we get tasks done. The other aspect that we need to consider is the practical action Paul invokes on the brethren to show their love – not just talk it. “I love you,” said only as words means very little to the person hearing it. Love is an action word. Paul makes it clear to this shepherd that he needs to encourage his flock to show their love – not just talk it. How about us? Do our actions communicate love for Jesus and others? Or do others hear how we love them, but our actions show we love ourselves? Father, lead us to love like Christ – that will carry with it clear actions that communicate Your love.

* Meditation Questions: When was the last time you showed love to a friend? A stranger? An enemy? In your busyness do you take a moment to connect with the individuals around you? Based on the kind of person you are – do you need to be more disciplined to finish tasks, or do you need to be more relational as you complete tasks? Ask the Lord to bring balance into your life.