Here is a devotion to start your day!
Also available now at Power, Love & Miracles:
Hidden Heroes of the Bible: The Empty Tomb. Chapters 10-12 [PLM+]
Mary Magdalene: When Jesus Says Your Name. The Bible Unplugged podcast, episode 72
All Monday devotions include a free audiobook preview.
If this work supports your life, one way to help sustain it is by exploring the complete book, audio companion, and related resources HERE.
Hero: Epaphroditus of Philippi
Almost dying in the line of ordinary duty
Scripture: Philippians 2:25–30
Receive him therefore in the Lord with all joy, and hold such people in honor, because for the work of Christ he came near to death, risking his life to supply that which was lacking in your service toward me.
Reflection
Epaphroditus is not a famous apostle. He is a trusted messenger.
The church in Philippi sends him to Paul with a gift and instructions: care for the apostle’s needs. It sounds simple enough—travel, deliver, assist. But the journey and the work nearly cost him his life. Paul says he almost died carrying out his mission.
We’re not told exactly what happened—illness, danger on the road, the strain of ministry in a hostile environment. What we do know is that Epaphroditus did not quit when the assignment turned out to be harder than expected.
When word gets back to Philippi that he is sick, the church grieves for him, and he, in turn, is distressed that they are worried. This is a man whose heart is wrapped up in the well-being of others.
Paul honors him openly. He calls Epaphroditus “my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier.” He urges the church to receive him with joy and to “hold such people in honor.”
Most kingdom work looks more like Epaphroditus than like center-stage leaders. It is ordinary duty that becomes extraordinary when done in love: long hours, hidden sacrifices, emotional strain, physical fatigue, all in service to Christ and His people.
Perhaps you know what it is to feel “worn to the bone” by caring for others—children, aging parents, church responsibilities, work that serves those in need. You may not see yourself as a “risk-taker,” but your steady, costly faithfulness says otherwise.
Unassuming heroes like Epaphroditus remind us that God notices not only the big moments but also the quiet endurance that keeps saying, “I’m still here. I’m still serving.”
Centering Prayer
Lord Jesus,
You laid down your life in love, and you call me to a life of willing sacrifice. You know my limits and fears. Center my heart in your courage and compassion. Show me where you’re inviting me to take wise risks for the sake of others and strengthen me to serve even when it costs me comfort. – Amen
Practice for Today
Consider one area where serving someone else will cost you something today—time, money, convenience, or emotional energy. Say yes as an act of love, not compulsion.
Journaling Prompt
Where might God be inviting me into ‘Epaphroditus service’—costly, supportive, largely unseen? How do I feel about that invitation?
Closing Blessing
Live as a fellow worker and soldier of Christ.
Do not despise the support roles you are given to play.
Embrace wise sacrifice where love calls you forward.
Let your willingness to risk for others become a quiet echo of the cross.
Pray as You Go
Breathe in: Give me courage to serve…
Breathe out: … I offer my life to love