Ephesians 6:21-22 (JDV)
Ephesians 6:21 Tychicus, our dearly cared about brother and faithful assistant in the Lord, will tell you all the news about me so that you may be informed.
Ephesians 6:22 I am sending him to you for this very reason, to let you know how we are and to encourage your hearts.
information and encouragement
Paul needed the assistance of Tychicus. He was imprisoned and needed the help of this faithful brother. But he sent him with his letter because it was important to him that the churches who would receive this letter have information about his team and be encouraged by it.
When my wife and I were missionaries, we wrote regular newsletters to our supporters. But we also took furloughs every few years to go back and report in person to those churches. Since Paul could not do that, he sent his assistant (διάκονος) instead. Those who are praying for us need information about us.
Lord, help us to pray intelligently and accurately for our missionaries.
