Good afternoon, church family!
Each week I send out this brief message as a pause in the middle of our week to refocus and think about what Paul calls “the things above and not things on earth” (Colossians 3:2).
Today I want to tell you about a certain person in the Bible. I’d guess that 90 percent of even faithful church attenders don’t know this person or his story. His name is Epaphras. And, I confess, I’m glad I’m writing about him, because I have no idea how to pronounce his name.
Epaphras isn’t listed among the heroes of our faith, such as Abraham, Joseph, Moses and David. He’s not one of the many kings of Israel or Judah. He’s not one of the 12 disciples who followed Jesus.
In fact, the whole of Epaphras’ presence in scripture is limited to a couple of passing mentions in Colossians and at the end of Philemon. The most information we learn about him comes from two verses:
Epaphras, who is one of you, says hello. He’s a slave of Christ Jesus who always wrestles for you in prayers so that you will stand firm and be fully mature and complete in the entire will of God. I can vouch for him that he has worked hard for you and for those in Laodicea and Hierapolis.
-Colossians 4:12-13
Although we don’t know much about him, what we know is enough. Epaphras was a wrestler. And he wrestled in prayer for others.
Church family, the world needs more people like Epaphras!
Who are you wrestling in prayer for this week? It may be someone in desperate need of God’s saving grace. It may be someone who has been through the mud of life and just can’t catch a break. It may be someone in need of a miracle. Maybe all of the above!
You can’t fix everybody. But you know who can. Wrestle in prayer for those whom the Lord has placed on your heart this week. Be Epaphras for someone you know. That’s time well spent.
I pray that the Lord would bless you with His grace and rest this week. And be sure to keep reading to see the latest announcements!
--Pastor Billy
NEW & EXISTING SMALL GROUPS: We are inviting the entire church to participate in the ABCs of 2025 (Active Prayer, Biblical Literacy and Community Building). One of the best ways to participate is to join a new or existing small group! Sign up cards to help find the right group for you are located on the table in the back of the sanctuary.
MEN’S BREAKFAST: The next men’s breakfast is Saturday, March 8 at 7:30 a.m. with special guest speaker Pastor Kendall Franklin! All men are welcome to attend this free event. Invite a friend and come hungry!
HANDS TEAM: We have a “Hands Team” at the church made of men who are ready to assist those who need help with projects around the house. Email WLCCHands@gmail.com if you need assistance.
CRAFT CONNECTIONS: Hook and Needles has a new name: Craft Connections! Anyone interested in crafting can contact director Tiff Ward. The group’s next meeting is Monday (March 17) at 6 p.m. at the church.
WOMEN’S MINISTRIES EVENT: Mark your calendar for Saturday, March 22 for our next ladies’ event. More details to come soon.
JUST FOR FUN
Hey, you read Pastor Billy's midweek check-in all the way to the end! As a reward, check out these crazy stories I came across recently:
In a rare alignment, all the planets will be visible in the night sky this Friday! Here’s when and where to look.
Researchers have determined that the average payout from the tooth fairy is $5.01 per tooth, which is actually down 14 percent from a year ago. Please do not show this to my daughters.
Canada has always been famous for its maple syrup. Now it’s offering maple water, which is a new drink made out of tree sap.
Because Epaphras was a wrestler, you don’t have to worry about how you pronounce his name - just go by his wrestling stage name: The Ultimate Prayer Warrior!
Sorry, I’ll let myself out. 😁
Mike M.