16 I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae. 2 I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of his people and to give her any help she may need from you, for she has been the benefactor of many people, including me.
Romans 16:1-2
Romans 16 includes the closing remarks of Paul to the church in Rome. We started our journey through Romans realizing that the historical church in Rome was probably multicultural, multilingual, working class and defining itself in the face of a dominant Roman culture that did not value it – not unlike our experiences with Christianity today. Paul gives ones of the most systematic explanation and defense for the God of Christianity being THE God who created all and values all – justifying as a free gift of faith. We do not need to do good works to deserve his love.
Now Paul begins to close. He commends Phoebe, a deacon, and gives her “props”. It has been so overwhelming as soooo many people have sent in their loving comments for my husband this past week after his death. So as I read Paul’s open affirmation of Phoebe that has come down through history to us today, I ponder if there is not someone whom we would commend. Why not send a “just because” text of affirmation, commending that person, or letter, or even an unexpected hug if possible today. A merry heart doeth good like a medicine! Blessings as you remember how you have been blessed.
On the Way to Wonder 