Charge It to Me

“So if you consider me your partner, receive him as you would receive me. If he has wronged you at all, or owes you anything, charge that to my account.” Philemon 17-18

If there is anything we know about God, we know that He is love (I John 4:7). And if we know anything about His desire for us, we know that He wants us to love Him and love others (I John 4:11). In fact, when asked what were the most important commandments of all time, that is exactly how Jesus responded- love God, love others (Matthew 22:36-39). We know that loving God is serving Him and obeying Him (John 14:15). But “loving each other” is pretty vague. There are many things loving each other could entail, but I think the apostle Paul sums it up well in these verses from Philemon. Onesimus had run from his responsibility as an indentured servant to Philemon. Providentially, he and Paul crossed paths and God changed Onesimus’ life. He was going to return and fulfill his obligation to Philemon, but was understandably worried about the kind of reception he would get! Paul, who knew Philemon, offered to intervene on Onesimus’ behalf. “If he has wronged you, or owes you anything, charge it to my account.” Friends, that is what it means to love others. Standing in the gap, assuming responsibility when another has failed, meeting a need that cannot otherwise be met, forgiving when no apology was offered, repaying a debt that has languished. True Christian love is demonstrated, not merely stated. The next time someone falls short- physically, emotionally, financially or spiritually, act in love. Have it charged to your account.

-Pastor Mike

Photo by Joseph Pearson on Unsplash