Recently, I read a story about a woman named Phoebe born approximately AD 56. Phoebe’s story, although centuries old, 2-verses long, and embedded at the end of the book of Romans, represents women today.
Her story is about hard-working women, committed to their duties. A woman, loved by all she served, but restricted in job assignments, promotions, and responsibilities. Her reward, if any, although personally fulfilling, was below the wages given to men. But her story was enough to catch the attention of God.
An inconspicuous list of heroes and greetings are listed in Romans
- But Phoebe is the first person mentioned in Paul’s verses 1-2 recommendation. If you’re not careful, you will miss how her simple contribution impacted the world. Even the mere definition of her name, “radiant and pure,” is an indication of the light she would bring to the world through service.
And so, the story goes, Phoebe, a dedicated church worker, carried a letter, now known as Romans, from Cenchrea, to the believers in Rome on behalf of Paul. At the time, she had no idea how a “yes, send me” response would impact what we read in the Bible today › Romans.
Paul’s recommendation of Phoebe lets us know his affirmation of her character. He says, “I recommend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea, that you receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and that you help her in whatever matter she may have need of you; for she herself has also been a helper of many, and of myself as well.” In other words, I am entrusting Phoebe into your care. Treat her like family. Get the bedroom ready. Cook the best Roman cuisines. Make her feel right at home, because she has been authorized by the Holy Spirit to serve and bring you good news written in my letter.
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Staying the course of helping others, day-in and day-out, set the stage for her rite of passage. Romans describe her as a servant, kind, a Saint, and generous. Some versions of the bible refer to her as a deaconess, others a servant or succor ready to give aid wherever she was needed.
She was unprotected by law as a woman, marginalized in a society dominated by men, and restricted to serving mostly women and children. However, in God’s sovereignty, He uses Paul’s inspired letter and Phoebe’s obedience to move her into the Romans Ha l l – of – S a lut at i on Fame.
So, what if your name is never attached to a bestseller like Romans or you never see your dreams fulfilled? Should you abandon your service? Should you stop keeping on? By all means, keep going! Stay the course. Do what Phoebe did. Have faith. Push through your weariness.
Don’t worry about the self-recognition. Share the word of God. Help others. Because following God will always lead to His rite of passage for you, in this life or in the next.
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Brenette Wilder of Lee’s Summit, Mo., (formerly of Altheimer, Ark.), is president of Kansas City Teen Summit. Her blog is available at wordstoinspire105953116. word-press.com.
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Editor’s note: Pastors, ministers or other writers interested in writing for this section may submit articles to shope@adgnewsroom.com. Please include your phone number and the name and location of your church or ministry.