If he comes soon.

“You should know that our brother Timothy has been released, with whom I shall see you if he comes soon.” Hebrews 13:23 ESV

“…if he comes soon.”

“If” is in the will of God. “If” this or that happens, then we will do this thing or that thing.

There are unknowns within our experience of living in the sweet spot of Gods will. And one of those sweet spots, if not the main spot which all the others find their place, is honoring and submitting to one another in the Lord.

When we recognize that each of us knows the Lord in an intimate way, or at least possibly do know him. It should humble us to bow low before each other like some oriental cultures do, and to respect each others every thought and word. It does not mean that we accept every word or thought as being Gods word, but that we recognize that He does dwell in humans and speak his word through them. Even my friend. Even my Mom. Even my Dad. Even my sisters. Even my brothers. Even a stranger. These may have the touch of God on them to minister to me. Humbling. And revealing of my own pride in thinking I have the right to choose who is allowed the place to speak for God into my life.

I’m getting all these thoughts from how deeply Paul respects Timothy and understands his current situation. He could command Timothy in the Lord to do this or that and be here or there, but he waives that right to except the use of his spiritual authority in Christ, and chooses to “go with the flow” relationally. This isn’t a black and white situation. This is the messy bits where the incarnation of Christ in us gets lived out. We yield to one another in love.

Paul demonstrates what walking in the intimate experience of heart fellowship. Unity in the Spirit. Maintaining the bond of peace. This way Paul can ensure that he will gain a willing partnership from Timothy if he chooses to accompany him on this journey.