For Love's Sake

Philemon 8-9: "Therefore, though I have enough confidence in Christ to order you to do what is proper, yet for love's sake I rather appeal to you - since I am such a person as Paul, the aged, and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus."

Forgiveness and acceptance (reconciliation) is the paramount theme of this letter. I think that verses 8-9 depict an applicable means in dealing with conflict. Paul being an apostle and elder does not use his authority in demanding change, though he would be correct and just in doing so. Rather, he uses love - which is the commitment both of them share in Christ. The plea seems non-confrontational. It is not forceful, nor does it seem intrusive. The legal definition of appeal is to demand change using a higher court and in a sense the 'higher' stance in this application is love, which focuses on our commitment and understanding of Christ. I wonder how much conflict can be resolved and avoided if we practiced such a perspective in our relationships with others.

Re: silly prayers

have often pondered about the 'correct' way to pray and also have been challenged at times during prayer. There are times when I evaluate my own prayers (as well as others) and have felt that they were, well, petty. I think sometimes it is easy to deem long and emotional prayers as substance and powerful and shorter, 'all about me' prayers as almost missing the point. However, I think that both are accepted by our Lord. I think prayer is a reflection of what is going on inside each of us (David in the Psalms) and that it is alright to kick and scream about our afflictions to our Holy God. On the other hand, Paul's intercessory prayers also provide an example of 'what he did not pray for.' Paul was adamant of believers to grow in knowledge and wisdom and I think behind some of the 'petty' prayers that I and others have said, we desire the same thing. I believe that the Holy Spirit listens and knows where each of our understandings are of Him and is willing to meet us at that point and draw us to His Will; however long, short, silly, inept our prayers may be. I think as we continue to grow in Christ, our prayers will begin to reflect not only our personal matters, but community, actions, forgiveness and ultimately praise for everything in between.