LETTERS: Epilogue
Paul’s method of communicating with the churches abroad was to write letters. Obviously this was the most efficient way of communicating with the church abroad in his day. Now it would be much more efficient to write an email or make a phone call. Something worth considering, though, is whether that would be as meaningful.
“I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you” (4:18 NIV). There is something deeply personal about taking the time out to write a letter to someone. To put your own mark on it, your own thoughts and life into it.
So, that is how this devotional is ending. Think of someone you can write a letter to and then write it. We have envelopes and stamps at the church if you want us to mail it out for you. If it is more convenient for you to send an email,… we still want you to hand write a letter.
If you are unsure of who to send one to, here are our suggestions. Pick someone who has had a meaningful impact in your faith journey. It could be someone from a current season or a past season. It could be someone who played a huge role like leading you to faith or baptizing you. It could be to someone who played a more behind the scenes yet just as important role like showing up for small group week in and week out.
Whoever it is, may your tone be one of faithful encouragement. Expound upon what God is doing in your life and/or something you have take in from this study. Three to five paragraphs is plenty, but feel free to write more if there is something on your heart. End with gratitude and an admonishment to continue walking worthy.
“Dear children, let us not love in word or speech but in action and in truth.” 1 John 3:18