A Forgotten Story of Healing

Scripture: Philippians 2:27 – “He was indeed so ill that he nearly died. But God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, so that I would not have one sorrow after another.” (NRSVUE)

The Epistles of the New Testament can seem impersonal at times. In the passages we hear on Sunday mornings there is often a theological lesson, a moral rebuke, or an exhortation to righteousness. But the Epistles are also letters, and are written to specific people at specific times, and every once in a while, you get a glimpse of the man behind the Apostle.

Paul’s Letter to the Philippians tells the story of Epaphroditus, a name you are more likely to find at the hardest level of a Bible trivia game than in a sermon. Epaphroditus was a member of the church in Philippi in the northeast of modern Greece, and he had gone to visit Paul in prison. He was there as a representative of the church, helping the suffering apostle when the rest of the congregation could not. But Epaphroditus got sick, so sick that he nearly died. However, he did not want the rest of the Philippians to know this and worry about him. He wanted all their prayers to be for Paul. Now that Epaphroditus was better, Paul wanted to send him home.

Epaphroditus is the story of a man who loved serving his church more than his health. He is a great example of self-sacrifice for the faith. He is a hero to those of us who feel called to go the extra mile for someone in need.

But to Paul, the story of Epaphroditus is about God’s love. At this time in his life, Paul feels especially abused and isolated. And the idea of losing one of his friends would have been another terrible sorrow. But Paul gives thanks to God, not just for Epaphroditus’ health, but for their continued relationship.

This seemingly random story reminds us of God’s love for us, especially in times of poor health. God’s healing mercies guide us through even the most difficult times in our lives. Miracles do happen, our prayers are answered, and life is restored. Even when these do not occur, God is present with us, not only in our own bodies, but in our friendships and communities of faith. I hope you feel God’s healing in your life today.

Prayer: God of health and hope, hear my prayers and bring me what I most need today. Amen.