October 8

See To It
Colossians 4:17-18

We know almost nothing about Archippus, the man.  Besides this injunction, we know that he was a friend of Philemon whom Paul called his "fellow soldier."  So we may conclude that he too was some sort of evangelist, perhaps to the area around Colosse.   More than that, Paul evidently considered him a good friend - since his comment is at the end of the letter.
Paul's injunction has three points:

  • See to it.  The work of the Lord is sometimes imagined to be a carefree existence, requiring no diligence but rather a prayerful spirit.  It is not so.  The word here means "to look after" - it is the word which applies to the diligent.
  • Complete the work.  So often in the church we see a work begun and never finished.  It is no disgrace if the work takes longer than your lifetime - but complete the task you are given.  Patience and endurance are still virtues.
  • You have received in the Lord.  We must remember that the tasks we have in the church - whether in the church building or on the streets around - are given to us by the Lord.  Are you called to teach?  Teach at the Lord's command.  Are you called to sweep?  Sweep as if he were to walk on your floors this very day.
Paul then emphasizes his command:  "Remember my chains."  There is no greater honor than disgrace for Jesus Christ's sake.  Paul points out that he is in chains for the Gospel - what then, friend Archippus, do you find so hindering in the completion of your task?  If I can continue to preach the Gospel from a jail cell then surely you can complete the task God has assigned to you.
For indeed, God does not match us with tasks without giving us the strength to perform them.  Such things require faith and prayer, but remember that God often chooses the unlikely to accomplish the impossible.
Perhaps he has set you a task which you think is too heavy.  Do not compel God to find another to carry this load.  Go to him in prayer and ask for his strength.  Then, remembering that this task came from our Lord, complete your task with diligence and hard work.  He is mindful of you;  persevere so that you may hear the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."