We rarely know the moment we are making a life-long friend. In these chapters, Paul is traveling through the cities he will eventually write, our now epistles, to. All his missionary journeys probably went differently than planned, but it’s clear some beautiful friendships were forged.

“In everything I showed you that by working hard in this manner you must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” (20:35‬)

Though, in our lifetime, we may never heal someone with our hanker chief, we can all bring forms of healing, love and wholeness though living out this principle: it is more blessed to give than to receive. Any one of us could personally attest to the trueness of this statement (besides the fact it came from the most reputable source, Jesus), so why is it so easy to forget?

Lazy and entitled are words older generations like to use in reference to my generation, and younger. I say, we show them our love for Christ by continuing in generosity. I am blessed to say I have many friends and peers, who excel in hospitality, compassion and care for vulnerable communities (aka “the weak”). This is the exhortation I believe Paul would still have for us.

Let’s pray together, today, for new ways to bless those around us and help the weak. Let’s thank God for all our precious friendships.

-Bethany