August 22

I, Paul, write this with my own hand. I will repay it—not to mention that you owe me your very self. — Phlm 1:19 BSB

This is one of Paul’s letters written from prison.

Prison is not an ideal place for ministry. Yet, Paul’s time in captivity was incredibly fruitful. During these years, he wrote letters to the churches he couldn’t visit and to individuals he wanted to help. These letters not only blessed those who first received them, but they have also continued to bless countless people over the centuries.

This particular letter was written on behalf of a runaway slave who had come to know Paul in Rome and had been converted. The slave was returning to his master, and Paul wrote this letter to appeal for kind treatment toward him.

We can also write letters—whether to congratulate someone on a success, express sympathy to someone in sorrow, encourage the discouraged, or give thanks for kindness.

It’s a good thing to have a pen ready to be used for the Master.