We have come to the end of Romans, chapter 16 lands the plane, and Paul finishes the letter with a lot of greetings. At first read, it seems like a strange way to end a book of the Bible, but after some processing and help from pastor Kris’ teaching, it makes complete sense that Paul is sending his love and greetings in a personal letter. Great perspective to have, this and so many of the books of the Bible are personal letters. 

Here are a few things that stood out to me this morning. First, as a father of two daughters, it stood out of many women Paul was sending his greetings and showing respect to. He opens the letter commending Phoebe, a deacon. The term deacon comes from the Greek word diákonos, meaning servant or minister. It appears at least 29 times in the New Testament. The term designates an appointed member of the local church who assists by serving other members and meeting material needs.

“I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deacon of the church in Cenchreae. I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of his people and to give her any help she may need from you, for she has been the benefactor of many people, including me.” - ‭‭Romans‬ ‭16:1-2‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Phoebe, an influential and respected woman in leadership, is the opening statement of Paul's closing letter. She is not only a deacon in the church, and she was a huge financial supporter of his ministry and other ministries as well. #girlpower

The list of powerful and respected women continues, many who risked their lives for Paul. Others who were second mothers to Paul, and many who worked hard in the Lord. As a father of daughters, I love reading about powerful women who have great respect and are significant leaders in a boys club. Women and men bring different gifts, talents, and leadership styles to the church and beyond. One is not better than the other, and they are uniquely different. But what is right is one is incomplete without the other, and we need to remember this when we find ourselves and organizations out of balance. 

Next, what stood out to me was how grateful, and personal Paul was in this closing. We are reading a letter from a great evangelist, arguably the greatest preacher of all times. This letter is just to one area of dozens or more that Paul ministered and traveled to...and he knew all these people's names, and stories. Paul was invested in the communities and did life with the people. Paul was humble and lived out his teaching; therefore, he knew people's names and stories and all about them. As leaders, we must remember this and stay humble and connected to the stories and lives of those we are serving with. 

Romans, a thick and challenging book to process and absorb, has come to an end. What a great ending of this persuasive letter, greetings, and Paul was sharing his love and appreciation for so many. A message we can take into our day, showing sincere appreciation for those we serve with. Also, it would be great to take a moment and think about those in our past who played a significant part in our growth and development that we need to send a greeting and message of respect. Let’s bring some honor to those who have honored us today