Refreshing Hearts

In the bustling world we live in, it's easy to feel drained, both physically and spiritually. We often find ourselves yearning for rejuvenation, much like stepping into a hot shower after an exhausting day. But what if we could be that refreshing presence for others? What if our interactions left people feeling energized, encouraged, and spiritually uplifted?

This idea of being a "refresher" to others is beautifully illustrated in the often-overlooked book of Philemon.

Philemon, a wealthy businessman in the ancient city of Colossae, had become a pillar of the local church. His home had transformed into a gathering place for believers, a sanctuary where hearts were refreshed and faith was strengthened. But Philemon's journey wasn't always one of usefulness and spiritual vitality. Like many of us, he had once been "useless" in terms of his spiritual impact. It was only through his encounter with Christ that he became a source of refreshment to others.

This transformation from "useless to useful" is at the heart of the Christian message. It reminds us that no matter our past or current circumstances, God can use us to make a profound impact on those around us. The apostle Paul, writing from a Roman prison, commends Philemon for this very quality: "Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord's people."

But what does it mean to "refresh" the hearts of others? In the Greek, the word used here implies giving rest, rejuvenating, or reviving. It's about being a source of spiritual energy and encouragement to those around us. This concept isn't limited to Philemon; it's a calling for all believers.

Jesus himself speaks of this refreshing quality in Matthew 11:28-30:

As followers of Christ, we're called to embody this same restful, refreshing presence to those around us.

The question we must ask ourselves is: What is the outcome of our interactions with others? Do people leave our presence feeling uplifted and encouraged, or drained and discouraged? Are we a glass of cold water to a thirsty soul, or a glass of battery acid that corrodes and destroys?

The book of Hebrews offers practical advice on how we can be refreshers: "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching" (Hebrews 10:24-25). This passage emphasizes the importance of community, encouragement, and spurring each other on in faith.

It's often in the small acts of kindness, the listening ear, the word of encouragement, or the simple act of being present that we refresh others. It's about opening our homes for fellowship, visiting the lonely, helping those in need, or simply offering a heartfelt prayer for someone struggling.

However, we can't give what we don't have. To be truly refreshing to others, we must first be refreshed ourselves. This comes through our own relationship with Christ, spending time in His Word, in prayer, and in fellowship with other believers. It's only when we're filled up ourselves that we can effectively pour out to others.

The story of Philemon also touches on the themes of forgiveness and second chances. While the details aren't explicitly mentioned in this passage, we know that Philemon was being asked to forgive and welcome back Onesimus, a runaway slave who had become a believer. This situation raises important questions for us: How do we treat those who have wronged us but are now seeking forgiveness? How do we handle those who were once "useless" but have been transformed by Christ?

These questions challenge us to examine our own hearts. Are we willing to extend the same grace and forgiveness that we've received from God? Are we ready to see the potential in others, even if their past actions have hurt us?

The transformative power of the gospel is evident throughout this narrative. Paul, once a persecutor of the church, became its greatest advocate. Philemon, once just a wealthy businessman, became a pillar of spiritual refreshment in his community. Onesimus, once a runaway slave, became a valuable worker for the gospel. These stories remind us that no one is beyond the reach of God's transforming grace.

As we reflect on these truths, let's challenge ourselves to be refreshers in our spheres of influence. Whether it's in our families, workplaces, churches, or communities, we have the opportunity to be agents of encouragement and spiritual rejuvenation.

Remember, you don't need to clean yourself up before coming to God.

Jesus invites us to come as we are, with all our brokenness and imperfections. It's in that coming that He begins the work of transformation in our lives.

So, let's embrace our calling to be refreshers. Let's be the kind of people who, like Philemon, bring joy and encouragement to others through our love and faith. Let's create spaces – whether physical or emotional – where people can find rest, renewal, and spiritual nourishment.

In a world that often leaves people feeling drained and discouraged, we have the incredible opportunity to be sources of refreshment. As we do so, we not only impact the lives of those around us but also experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from living out our faith in tangible ways.

May we all strive to be refreshers, turning what was once useless into something beautifully useful for the Kingdom of God.