Parabolani

"…because he (Epaphroditus) came close to death for the work of Christ, risking his life to make up for those services that you could not give me. Finally, my brothers and sisters, rejoice in the Lord." Philippians 2:30-3:1

     You may not be familiar with the inspirational story of Epaphroditus. His courageous first century life inspired men and women in the early apostolic church to form societies named, "the parabolani," that is, the riskers or gamblers. These parabolani ministered to the sick and imprisoned, and they saw to it, that if it were at all possible, martyrs and sometimes even their enemies received an honorable burial.

     A powerful example is found in Cyprian, the bishop of the city of Carthage during the great pestilence of A.D. 252. At great personal risk, he took upon himself to care for the sick and show love even for his enemies, encouraging his congregation to nurse them and bury the dead.

     So who is Epaphroditus? He had been commissioned from his church to bring practical gifts to Paul, and to be a gift to the incarcerated apostle awaiting his fate in a severe Roman prison. The Philippi church was keenly aware of Paul's physical sufferings, and their messenger was to care for his every need. This was dangerous work by association. If Paul was unexpectedly executed, anyone identified as a friend could easily lose his own life.

     Paul cherished his valued helper, who at one point, had been on the brink of death. But God had deep pity and miraculously healed the critically ill man. The church was deeply concerned, and the fully recuperated Epaphroditus reciprocated their anxiety. Paul recognized the concerns of both the church and Epaphroditus, and selflessly determined to sacrifice his own personal comfort by sending his friend home to allay their concerns.

     As Paul wrote his letter to the church, he described his strong regard for Epaphroditus, as a beloved brother in the faith, a valued colleague, and as a trusted fellow soldier who willingly shared danger. Paul urged the church to welcome Epaphroditus home with honor and respect for his courageous work and service, reminding them yet again to rejoice in God.

     The world needs people willing to serve as parabolani with every generation. As the ecumenical church approaches All Saints Day, and All Souls Day, and All Saints Sunday during the month of November, remember your favorite heroes. Use the month to give God thanks for the living and deceased, who inspire you with their stories of courage and faithfulness. In doing so, the parabolani tradition continues and you will be inspired to greater deeds of bravery and devotion.

     Prayer: Thank you, God, for heroes past and present, who inspire every generation to live quiet lives of parabolani service. Bless and heal Zimbabwe with many parabolani heroes, I pray. Amen.

Written by Rev. Dr. Sandy Bochonok
http://soulfoodministry.org
October 31, 2002
Permission is given to freely distribute this reflection throughout Zimbabwe.