In the coming weeks I will visit the U.K. for the first time. I am always curious as to how others across this big world establish traditions, habits and phrases. Here is something I discovered about Old England.
In 19th-century England, debtors’ prison housed those unfortunate souls who couldn’t pay their bills. New prisoners were escorted to the “chummage,” a prison dormitory. Since the people were not there for violent crimes, a spirit of trust and camaraderie soon developed. They played games together and had plenty to eat. Some were even allowed private rooms.
In time, the prisoners began to refer to each other as “chums.” Later, the word caught on outside the prison walls and took on the meaning of “a cordial friend.”
I have found deep bonds of friendship also take place in Christian ministry. Equally, those who worked alongside Paul were not strangers to persecution and imprisonment. But a common mission created a deep sense of connectedness between these disciples. In his letter to the believers in Colosse, Paul called one man a “fellow servant” (Col 1:7). The term can be paraphrased as “together slave” or “one who serves the same master with another.”
When we as believers live under the love and direction of Christ, we can see our lives intertwined in service. By serving as slaves to Christ, a spiritual friendship will result that transcends being “chums.” We can pray that special relationship will continue on into all eternity!
See you next Sunday
MJ
PS Working together with others, serving the Lord day or night, telling the story of Jesus promises endless delight.