Relationships are key in any situation and in particular, in ministry. It's refreshing to know that St. Paul, with all his passion for teaching, preaching, writing and caring for the ever growing number of Christian communities he established, had time for personal friends. Timothy and Titus, two of Paul's converts who later became bishops were also his friends, his "dear children." "To Timothy, my beloved child." (1 and 2 Tim 1:2) "To Titus, my true child in a common faith." (Titus 1:4). Affectionate greetings, warm relationships...good for them, good for all. We are human and need the warmth and comfort of friends in order to be effective, loving channels of God's grace and, certainly to learn what love is and thus grow in a loving relationship with God. We take what we experience and know from our human relationships and apply it to our relationship with God. We do not want to be crusty or mechanical ministers, but deeply human, tender, compassionate and loving teachers, preachers and bearers of the Good News, the news that is all about love and LIFE! Thank you, Paul, Timothy and Titus for showing us the way.
Bro. Rene
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