"Brief Devotions For Busy Lives" by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson: Romans 16:1-2

 April 29

"I commend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a minister of the church at Cenchrae. I beg you to give her a Christian welcome, as the saints should; and to assist her in any matter in which she may have need of you. For she herself has been made an overseer to many people, including myself." - Romans 16:1-2 (Montgomery NT)

Although contemporary history has often ignored Phoebe, the fruits of her accomplishments live on today. For the truth is without Phoebe's courage to answer the cries for help of multitudes of people we would not have the letter of Romans today. It was Phoebe who ignored risks involved and volunteered to deliver Paul's critical letter to the persecuted church in Rome in 58 AD. Because of her bravery and sacrifices, Rev. Phoebe was recognized and canonized by the early church as a saint. Her feast day, September 3, is honored in Catholic, Orthodox, Lutheran, and Anglican churches.

Yet current scholarship has not treated Phoebe well. Unfortunately, many current translations of Romans have ignored history and give impressions Phoebe was a mere "servant" or "helper" of lowly status. Yet the original Greek Bible text is clear she was a diakonos, properly translated as "minster" and most likely pastor of the church in Cenchrea- a coastal Greek town where she lived 6 miles from Corinth. Because Phoebe supported and protected the Apostle Paul and others, Paul says she is also a prostatis or "overseer" to many. So what can we learn from Phoebe? We learn that no matter our status or position in life, or how history views us, each one of us can make a crucial difference in our world, home, church, and community.

Phoebe is an inspiring example of how to minister. She did not limit her help to donating to good causes but put her feet where her mouth was by risking her comfort and life in dangerous ways to help the endangered. Phoebe did not shirk responsibility and leadership when called to a higher task because she loved Christ enough to sacrifice her all. How can we be like Phoebe today?

Prayer: Lord, Thank you for Phoebe's courage. Amen

Meditation For The Day: Courage protects. Apathy neglects.

Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Spring Renewal Paperback – February 21, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)