In the “Kumquat Letter,” Paul wrote to Titus about a young man named Tertius who had deserted his post on the church council. When confronted, Tertius explained that he had gone to find out if there were any kumquats near the church. He found some, picked them up, continued to search for more and eventually discovered a grove of them. Having learned his lesson, Tertius then returned to the council and served the rest of the year without incident.
Paul writes Titus to ask him to speak with this young man. Paul tells him what happened and why it was important for him to learn this lesson.
His actions break down like this:
- Speak with young man.
- He apologizes for his actions.
- Explain that it was a serious error.
- Let him know that he should never do it again.
- Give him some kumquats to take home -Let him go with a lighter heart.
- Young man apologizes to elders. All is forgiven. He is free to go.
The Elder is pleased that the young man has learned his lesson and let’s him go with a lighter heart.
He is alone in a room, alone with the Lord. The elders come and find him praying earnestly. They find the elders waiting at the door and open it. They find Paul and Silas, bound for prison. They tell the elders that Paul and Silas are on their way to prison and give them a message from Paul. Elders ask: What did you do? Paul replies: I fell to my knees and prayed. Then I gave a message to the young man.
Paul is trying to understand what happened. He thinks of all the things he has done in the past that have caused people pain. He then realizes that he has been a source of pain to those who love him. He is also reminded of the love he has for those who have hurt him, which he will continue to do until he is able to forgive them.
He then looks at the kumquat tree outside his window and sees the kumquats he had picked up that day.
He is feeling sorry and sad. He is overcome with kumquat guilt!