Between the cracks, the names slip away.
We forget the bit players of life’s journey
Important for the moment, we should take special note
Jot down their names and why, then remember to thank.
If we could but take a moment and remember
Who would you thank for your positive steps?
I’ve listened to many a speaker
Take a special moment at their beginning remarks
To give honor and recognition to those on whom it’s due
But you seldom hear them list everyone…just the important ones.
Unseen and unknown are those who make my life better
Paul understands, and here he lists many of them.
I don’t know the names or all they did, but Paul says thanks.
And I think it’s something we should do better.
Romans 16:1-16 NKJV
Emphasis Mine
I commend to you Phoebe our sister,
who is a servant of the church in Cenchrea,
that you may receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints,
and assist her in whatever business she has need of you;
for indeed she has been a helper of many and of myself also.
Greet Priscilla and Aquila,
my fellow workers in Christ Jesus,
who risked their own necks for my life,
to whom not only I give thanks,
but also all the churches of the Gentiles.
Likewise greet the church that is in their house.
Greet my beloved Epaenetus,
who is the firstfruits of Achaia to Christ.
Greet Mary, who labored much for us.
Greet Andronicus and Junia,
my countrymen and my fellow prisoners,
who are of note among the apostles,
who also were in Christ before me.
Greet Amplias, my beloved in the Lord.
Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ,
and Stachys, my beloved.
Greet Apelles, approved in Christ.
Greet those who are of the household of Aristobulus.
Greet Herodion, my countryman.
Greet those who are of the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord.
Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, who have labored in the Lord.
Greet the beloved Persis, who labored much in the Lord.
Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord,
and his mother and mine.
Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes,
and the brethren who are with them.
Greet Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas,
and all the saints who are with them.
Greet one another with a holy kiss.
The churches of Christ greet you.