7 My brother, you have shown love to God’s people. You have made them feel happy. This has given me great joy and comfort.
8 There is something that you should do. And because of your love in Christ, I feel free to order you to do it.
9 But because I love you, I am asking you instead. I, Paul, am an old man now, and a prisoner for Christ Jesus.
10 I am asking you a favor for my son Onesimus. He became my son while I was in prison.
11 In the past he was useless to you. But now he has become useful for both you and me.
12 I am sending him back to you, and with him I am sending my own heart.
13 I wanted to keep him with me to help me while I am in prison for the Good News. By helping me he would be serving you.