"Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will bring it to pass" (1 Thessalonians 5:24).
Thirdly, Tychicus knew how to "comfort" the "hearts" of his fellow Christians (Ephesians 6:22). He would "encourage" the believers by sharing specific "circumstances" experienced by Paul and other servants of the Savior (Colossians 4:8). They were not alone in their struggles.
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort; who comforts us in all our afflictions so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God" (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). The community of Christians was active and growing.
Finally, Tychicus was a "fellow bond-servant in the Lord" (Colossians 4:7). He did not demand recognition or desire to be rewarded. He committed his life to the Lord and partnered with men of like-mindedness in order to labor effectively in Christian ministry. His character and conduct complemented the team of Christians that were assisting Paul in the proclamation of the Gospel. "But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction, and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Live in peace with one another" (1 Thessalonians 5:12-15).
Tychicus was part of the body of Christ and he partnered together with others so that the head of that body, the Lord Jesus, might receive the preeminence and glory.
Each volunteer should cultivate these four traits, as he or she seeks to tackle a task for Christ. The love and faithfulness of a volunteer must be noticeable. The ability to comfort lonely and anxious hearts must likewise be evident. And the right volunteer will partner with others to accomplish great things for the Savior.
May God help us to be good volunteers seeking always to bring honor to His glorious name!
Rob Zapotoski,
SMS International Field Representative
