Meet Missy Richardson

The book of Philemon is really short, y'all. Only one chapter. It is a letter from Paul (written from jail) to his friend and brother in Christ, Philemon. In this letter, Paul expresses his gratefulness to Philemon for his friendship and loyalty to Christ. He tells Philemon that "your love has given me much joy and comfort." Then Paul encourages Philemon to accept his former slave (Onesimus) as a Christian brother and equal. He goes so far as to say, "If he has wronged you at all, or owes you anything, charge that to my account." (Philemon 18)

I don't know if I have ever read Philemon until recently. I was blown away by the message in that one verse (Philemon 18) and by how Paul is willing to take on debt that is not his own even while in jail. Paul had great confidence in Onesimus and believed he should no longer be treated like a slave but like a brother. This was definitely a big deal for Paul to ask of Philemon. Paul and Philemon only had to look to Jesus for the best example of taking on a debt He did not owe when He died on the cross for the sin of mankind.

Paul's words to Philemon inspire me to be a bold follower of Christ. Paul shared the gospel and lived out his faith—even while in jail. He thought of others while he was suffering. He advocated for someone who needed his help. I have to ask myself how I can do these things even while in jail—I mean, school. It means I can't always think of myself. I need to look around and be willing to serve others and share the gospel of Jesus Christ.