Behind the Scenes

Read Colossians 4: 7-16

Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, greets you. He is always wrestling in his prayers on your behalf, so that you may stand mature and fully assured in everything that God wills. Colossians 4:12 (NRSV)

Monica A. Andermann, from New York, once worked for a medical facility where each month the department that showed exemplary efforts was named "department of the month." Direct care departments such as therapy, physicians, or nursing, would usually be honored while administrative areas were overlooked. Then one month, the accounting department where Monica worked was recognized. Our supervisor had written to the facility's administrator outlining how the behind-the-scenes staff were equally important as those on the front lines. He explained that without our efforts to keep intricate records, ensure timely payroll, and navigate insurance billing and collections, the facility would be unable to remain open.

Today's reading from Colossians, Onesimus, and Epaphras. The scripture tells us that these are beloved fellow servants in Christ who bring comfort during difficult times. Monica wonders if the good news about Christ could have been as far-reaching without the support of people like these.

In God's eyes no one is more important than another. We are all equal servants in God's kingdom with our own essential roles.

Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, please show us where we are needed to serve, and give us the resolve to do our best, in Jesus' name. Amen.