Romans 16:1-16 NKJV

[1] I commend to you Phoebe our sister, who is a servant of the church in Cenchrea, [2] 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. [3] Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, [4] who risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. [5] Likewise, greet the church that is in their house. Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who is the first fruit of Achaia to Christ. [6] Greet Mary, who labored much for us. [7] Greet Andronicus and Junia, my countrymen and my fellow prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me. [8] Greet Amplias, my beloved in the Lord. [9] Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and Stachys, my beloved. [10] Greet Apelles, approved in Christ. Greet those who are of the household of Aristobulus. [11] Greet Herodion, my countryman. Greet those who are of the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord. [12] Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, who have labored in the Lord. Greet the beloved Persis, who labored much in the Lord. [13] Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. [14] Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren who are with them. [15] Greet Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them. [16] Greet one another with a holy kiss. The churches of Christ greet you.

Paul made it a point to acknowledge the people who cared for him and contributed to the success of the early church. They were his friends, allies, and fellow missionaries. He understood the value each of them added to his calling of furthering the Gospel. God used each of them in special ways to encourage and empower Paul along his journey.

I can't help but think about all of the people who have helped me, prayed for me, and encouraged me over the past several years. Some of them saw me at my worst. My situation never dissuaded them from reaching out to me and loving me in (and through) my mess. Godly, God-loving people are some of the greatest blessings of the Lord this side of Heaven.