Those Who Are Here. Philippians 4:22. “All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of Caesar’s household.” Those in “Caesar’s household” would have been servants, slaves, and employees we now call "civil servants." Some of them became Christians, which connected them with all other believers in God's family. That connection still reaches throughout society, crossing social, economic, and cultural barriers because believers are “one in Christ,” one family in Him.
We know each other in this area well enough to speak for those with similar interests and seek their welfare. We rarely see those who live farther away, but we know they share our interests. When I send them greetings, they often say, “Give them my greetings, and tell them we pray for their well-being and usefulness for God.” What more encouraging words could they say? When we receive letters with similar comments, the joy these greetings bring surpasses words. Knowing there is genuine interest in the work I do is enough motivation to continue and seek other ways to serve the Lord’s people.
Those who live here have a deep interest in those abroad, motivating them to continue as intercessors before God's throne on behalf of people they haven’t seen or personally know. When opportunities arise to connect with you in some way, they want to encourage you in everything you do. Some here are older, but they make it a point to ask for and pass on prayer requests daily. They want to act on behalf of those in need and understand how intercessors want to make their requests wisely. So be encouraged today, wherever your daily work takes you. Perhaps you would consider that there are those here who choose not to forget the needs of those far away until they are met.
When we are in fellowship with God, there will be words and songs of praise to Him for who He is and what He provides. Believers who are united will find great joy in knowing about believers living for God in other places. All Christians everywhere are brothers and sisters in Christ. Unity, humility, joy, and peace are all results of minds that are focused on Christ. The Gospel that has reached even the hardest places like Caesar's household is the power of God. That Gospel has been entrusted to us. This tender-hearted letter came from someone who knew his purpose for living and modeled it after his Lord. There is a price for holy living, but the power to do it is given through our Lord Jesus Christ.