«For which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak» (Ephesians 6:20).
DEAR AMBASSADOR:
I am writing to update you on the progress of the gospel you helped establish in Ephesus. I remember when you kept preaching even while you were a prisoner, and today some who are not even free proclaim Jesus. I remember when you challenged us to leave the wisdom of the world to follow the madness of preaching, and today some prefer the sanity of the world over the madness of the gospel.
You were very clear in teaching us that we must be built on the immovable rock of His Word, but some choose to build on the quicksand of their opinions. It was encouraging to know that we are not strangers or foreigners, but citizens of the eternal kingdom; but it is discouraging to know that some discard eternal inheritance for a temporary residence on this earth.
Timothy understood that the love of money is the root of all evils, but today some believe that money is the solution to all problems. We were thrilled to see that, because of your love of Christ, it was well worth losing everything; today we were saddened to see that some prefer to lose Christ because they choose to love things.
How inspiring it was to hear your testimony of the brethren of Berea, who were very noble because they received the Word eagerly and examined the scriptures daily! Today, however, dear ambassador, there is no time for that, there are many important things to do.
Dear Ambassador, you considered yourself the least of all the saints and the chief of sinners. Today many feel the greatest of saints and the least of sinners. Instead of recounting the little things God has done for them, some prefer to tell the great things they have done for God. They do not promote the glory of Heaven; they seek to be applauded on this earth.
Instead of being prisoners of Christ they prefer Christ to be their hostage. Instead of recognizing and appropriating Christ’s armor to face the harsh battle of life, they take life as an entertaining game in an amusement park. It seems that some do not realize that the church is a lifeboat, not a pleasure boat. What happened to us?
Ambassador, how many times did you tell us to imitate you, just as you imitated Jesus. We want to have your commitment to the Lord, your faithfulness, your courage, your tireless walk on Earth with your unwavering gaze on Heaven. Thank you so much, Ambassador, for the influence of your life and your writings!
*******
Father: Help me to be like Paul. Help me be revived by a passion.
