“Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.
“Tychicus will tell you all about my activities. He is a beloved brother and faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord. I have sent him to you for this very purpose, that you may know how we are and that he may encourage your hearts, and with him Onesimus, our faithful and beloved brother, who is one of you. They will tell you of everything that has taken place here.
“Aristarchus my fellow prisoner greets you, and Mark the cousin of Barnabas (concerning whom you have received instructions—if he comes to you, welcome him), and Jesus who is called Justus… They have been a comfort to me. Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you, always struggling on your behalf in his prayers, that you may stand mature and fully assured in all the will of God. For I bear him witness that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and in Hierapolis. Luke the beloved physician greets you, as does Demas. Give my greetings to the brothers at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house. And when this letter has been read among you, have it also read in the church of the Laodiceans; and see that you also read the letter from Laodicea. And say to Archippus, ‘See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord.’” Colossians 4:5-17
Ah, wise Paul! As he draws his letter to the Colossian church to a close, he encourages them to walk and use their time wisely, to speak with graciousness and seasoning that befits the Lord’s people. Then, in his final greetings, he exemplifies exactly what he’s commended them to do. Naming individuals personally (and even by preferred nickname), lacing his mentions of work and ministry and struggle and help with particular interest, love, and appreciation, tying them together by reminding them of prayers on their behalf, his words sum up his final admonition: ‘Fulfill your ministry.’ He is fulfilling his by intentionally spreading grace, comfort, and encouragement.
Much is said today about fulfilling purpose and making dreams happen, but the little is mentioned about any motivation higher than self. A life bent on serving personal interests, self-protection, and maintaining distance from anyone who might impede my progress is actually unfulfilling. As with most worldly motives and teachings, these goals are far different from the Lord’s. (Isaiah 55:8-9)
Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve, shows us the better way. His recipe for maturity in Christ and His will combines godly wisdom with selfless, generous, active, meaningful ministry. It includes intentional relationships that model and build up and refine, urging gratitude and gracious service. (Matthew 20:28; Ephesians 4:29; 1 Thessalonians 5:11)
How wisely are we walking, and where do we need correction? How richly seasoned is our speech, and what needs changing? What graciousness, love, persistence, sympathy, encouragement, and hospitality are exhibited in our daily interactions? These are no trite matters, but vital to Christian fellowship and growth. What might take place to make a difference today?
Lord, with wisdom, graciousness, and Your heavenly seasoning, may I zealously fulfill the ministry You have given me for Your purposes and glory.
As the rain and snow 