²⁴

But I trust in the Lord that I myself shall also come shortly.

²⁵

Yet I considered it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier, but your messenger and the one who ministered to my need;

²⁶

since he was longing for you all, and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick.

²⁷

For indeed he was sick almost unto death; but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow.

²⁸

Therefore I sent him the more eagerly, that when you see him again you may rejoice, and I may be less sorrowful.

²⁹

Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in esteem;

³⁰

because for the work of Christ he came close to death, not regarding his life, to supply what was lacking in your service toward me.