Beach volleyball is a two-person sport. The recent Summer Olympics held in Paris showcased the best of the world. The winner in the women’s event was the team of Ramos-Lisboa. The two women from Brazil worked together as a well-oiled team and brought pride to their country along with a well-earned gold medal. Complete commitment and teamwork were essential qualities of this dynamic duo.
The apostle Paul describes another dynamic duo in his letter to the Philippians. He gives two fellow workers a pat on the back for their teamwork with him in gospel ministry. However, these two gospel athletes did not engage in athletic endeavors but in the pursuit of ministry for the Lord Jesus. Their efforts were not record-breaking stratospheric endeavors that only a few elites can duplicate. But what they did serves as a model for all of us everyday believers. We too can do it.
Timothy and Epaphroditus were recognized by Paul for their faithful service and godly character. He commends them for their intense concern for the people they ministered to. They loved the people of God so much that their heart was wrapped around those they served. They rejoiced when they rejoiced, and they wept when they wept. They were also selfless in their service. In a world that is always looking out for themselves they served the Lord even risking their own health and lives. Paul also pointed out their readiness to continue to serve the Lord. They were not just satisfied with what they did in the past but were ready to spring into the game at a moment’s notice.
Paul lifted up this dynamic duo to the Philippians as an example for all of us to follow. He told them to: “Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness and hold such men in esteem” (Phil. 2:29). We may never earn an Olympic medal of any color. But we can earn something far more valuable and lasting. That imperishable commendation from our Lord which says: “well done good and faithful servant”.
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