The apostle Paul was a caring man who loved people. He was not a mere academic nor a male chauvinist. His heart was on fire for the gospel, and he treasured his relationships. Relationships are a gift from God which should be treasured and nurtured. Paul's heart overflowed. If the long list of names and greetings in these verses teaches us anything, it is that Paul had a great love for people. The passage features 33 people, 24 of which were in Rome. What makes this list of those he knew in the church of Rome so amazing is the fact that he had never been there! Think of the energy and effort "keeping in touch" involved in such an ancient culture with no modern technology! There was no postal service for civilians, no cell phones, emails, texts or social media. Names were very important to Paul. Our own names are music to our ears. Certainly, Paul knew this. But it is also true that you learn the names of those for whom you really care. Some suggest that the reason Paul could so readily recite all these names in dictation was because of their frequent mention in his personal prayer list. Love people by learning their names and their stories. Put their names on your prayer list. Love your church. Be people persons. What a difference authentic Christian affection can make in a cold, indifferent world! "People don't care what you know until they know that you care." The church of Jesus Christ is meant to be one large and very caring family to help you onto heaven! And if you hurt your church, you hurt yourself.
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David Bodanza is the pastor of Mission of Grace Church in Westborough, Massachusetts. He is also a practicing lawyer. He holds an M.Div. degree from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and a J.D. from New England School of Law. He lives in Massachusetts with his wife, four...
