23. I hope therefore to send him promptly, just as soon as I know how my case is going to turn out.
24. But [really] I am confident and fully trusting in the Lord that shortly I myself shall come to you also.
25. However, I thought it necessary to send Epaphroditus [back] to you. [He has been] my brother and companion in labor and my fellow soldier, as well as [having come as] your special messenger (apostle) and minister to my need.
26. For he has been [homesick] longing for you all and has been distressed because you had heard that he was ill.
27. He certainly was ill [too], near to death. But God had compassion on him, and not only on him but also on me, lest I should have sorrow [over him] coming upon sorrow.
28. So I have sent him the more willingly and eagerly, that you may be gladdened at seeing him again, and that I may be the less disquieted.
29. Welcome him [home] then in the Lord with all joy, and honor and highly appreciate men like him,