This one-chapter-long book (and letter) by Paul, is a play on words to me. I have heard at least two credible ways to pronounce the name of the person to whom Paul’s letter is addressed. And going to the footnotes in most Bibles will alert us that the name of the slave (Onesimus) is actually the Greek word for “useless.” Paul twists that one around in this personal pastoral epistle.
Philemon verses 8-12
8 For this reason, though I am more than bold enough in Christ to command you to do the right thing, 9 yet I would rather appeal to you on the basis of love—and I, Paul, do this as an old man and now also as a prisoner of Christ Jesus. 10 I am appealing to you for my help child, Onesimus, whose father I have become during my imprisonment. 11 Formerly he was useless to you, but now he is indeed useful to you and to me. 12 I am sending him, that is, my own heart, back to you.
Prayer
God, help me to find the use and purpose in all the people I encounter today, as I live in your love through our Lord and Savior Jesus, in whose name I pray. Amen.
