Philemon is a short letter but it is surely a gem. In Philemon 1:15, Paul writes that Onesimus was lost for only a little while so that Philemon could have him back forever. The forever that is mentioned is not talking about the return of Onesimus to the position of servant to Philemon, for him to serve forever. The forever mentioned is eternity. Onesimus was lost as a runaway for a little while, so that he could return to Philemon with eternal life. He left a slave to Philemon; he would return a slave to Christ.
In the past few months there have been a lot of deaths among family and friends. Whenever someone is called home to the Lord, we grieve in our own ways as we have lost someone we love. We consider how we won’t be able to do something with someone who is now in heaven. We may recognize that one day we will see them again, but it is the today and tomorrow that we see and our loved one isn’t there. Those who have passed away may be lost for a little while, but we will have them back forever if they have put their faith in Christ Jesus.
Today, remember that it is through faith alone in Jesus Christ that we are saved. Remember, that the only way to the Father is through the Son. Remember, that there are people in your life right now that have not heard the Good News. They could be forever lost. Be intentional. Take the time to share the Gospel and to live it out. Pray that those who come along your path will be found forever.
“It seems you lost Onesimus for a little while so that you could have him back forever.” – Philemon 1:15 [NLT]
Tania Gutekunst 