Some things are better said face to face, don’t you agree? Another short letter from John setting up a visit in person for more truth sharing and direction for life. This time, we have a name, Gaius. That’s the name of one of my favorite characters from the television series, “The Chosen.” In that show, Gaius is not a fellow Jew but a Roman officer who comes to faith in Jesus. I couldn’t help but think of that character as John writes to his friend, Gaius.
Can you relate to John’s sentiment in verse 4? “ I could have no greater joy than to hear that my children are following the truth.” I definitely can. In addition to my own “children,” I think of all the individuals, most of them children, whom I have shared the gospel with over the years. When I see them as adults living out their faith, a warm feeling just bubbles up inside me. To have played a small role in planting seeds or watering seeds of faith already planted brings joy.
John applauds Gaius’ efforts at hospitality and care for the traveling teachers. Such important work for the kingdom. All of us appreciate hearing positive reinforcement for our deeds, especially when it comes to faith matters. Even though we’re called to be humble, recognition doesn’t always have to be a negative thing.
I couldn’t help but recognize myself a bit in the role of a “traveling teacher.” I’m certainly far from home, living in Mexico, and I’m teaching children about the Bible here. I am very grateful for the missionary stipend I receive and hope that one day my published devotionals will also generate sustainable income. Providing for those who teach and lead us on our faith journey pleases God. We can cheerfully give to the mission of our choosing, knowing it brings a smile to the face of God.
One of my jobs at the orphanage, besides teaching Bible classes, is to record donations and send quarterly and yearly receipts and reports. As these verses suggest, each donor becomes a partner in our ministry, interested in the lives of these lost and forgotten children. Let me tell you, the love and support they get from the orphanage’s founder and all the “house mothers” in charge of daily living is a sight to behold.
Unfortunately, there will always be that one bad apple. John even called one out by name. It does us good to remember the counsel John gives in verse 11. “Dear friend, don’t let this bad example influence you. Follow only what is good. Remember that those who do good prove that they are God’s children, and those who do evil prove that they do not know God.” Don’t forget that the evil being done may be harder to discern than you think. That’s why we need the power of the Holy Spirit to guide us.
Think about how you are supporting the ministries around you. Do you play an active role? Do you pray regularly for the leaders of that ministry? What more can you do to help? How is God calling you today?
Let’s pray. Thank you, Lord, for the call you have placed on my life. I continue to ask for your guidance each day to make sure my work is pleasing to you. Help me to be the person you created me to be. I want to be ready to serve you so that others can find you and know your loving presence. Forgive me for my lack of confidence in myself. Remind me I belong to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
