THANKFUL

Monday, November 15, 2021

Lord, did You hide a great emancipating truth in the little book of Philemon on purpose? Most people if they blink twice will miss this treatise nestled between Titus and Hebrews, toward the end of the New Testament. Seems like brother Philemon, a kind and loving believer, had a rebellious “slave,” i.e., indentured servant. Onesimus ran away before paying his debts and fled to Rome to find the Apostle Paul. Paul, who was in prison, was the good friend of Philemon, and maybe Onesimus could have Paul champion his rebellion. Instead, Paul led Onesimus to faith in Christ and sent him back to Philemon with the instructions that “If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me” (Philemon 1:18). Onesimus was no longer a slave to Philemon, but now a dear brother in Christ, partnering with his former “master,” actively doing his part to expand the Kingdom of God.

Aren’t we like Onesimus? I certainly was. In our carnal nature, we are rebellious against God and His righteousness. Hanging over our head is a sin debt that must be paid. But on the cross, You said “whatever sin debt (insert your name here) had, charge it to me!” Thank You, Lord, that once we put our faith in You and the work of Your cross, our sin debts are paid in full and we have a new life with You.

Because of Your mercy and grace, Jesus, I now live “debt-free.” Amen