The task of establishing a Church in Colossae was delegated by Paul to Epaphras. Though not founded by the Apostle himself, the Church in a very short time, began to flourish. This clearly shows how God uses the ministry of persons of lesser note for His work, so that "this all surpassing power may be seen, not as ours, but God's" (2 Cor. 4:7).

We note the magnanimity of St Paul who, for his part, was ready "to water what he had not planted". He loves this Church as his own, takes a keen interest in it, prays for it, praises the faith of its people, and speaks warmly, admiringly, and gratefully for its founder, Epaphras. An edifying lesson indeed for all who work together in the ministry, whether they sow, or whether they reap, or just look on!

The Gospel account of the curing of Peter's mother-in-law is yet another example of the service that should come naturally and voluntarily to us for the graces we have received. Immediately after her cure "she waited on them". She must have heard Peter speak of Christ before this; now she came to know Him personally. The faith thus engendered and nurtured on a personal level is what Christ wants, not "faith" based on hearsay.

A very striking aspect of Christ's ministry is His need to be alone after a day full of good works. Do we acknowledge and provide for a similar need in our own busy lives?