Scripture: 2nd Corinthians 11:23-28
Are they servants of Christ? I am a better one–I am talking like a madman–with far greater labors, far more imprisonments, with countless beatings, and often near death. Five times I have received at the hands of the Jews the forty lashes less one. Three times I have been beaten with rods; once I was stoned. Three times I have been shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been adrift at sea; on frequent journeys, in danger from rivers, danger from robbers, danger from my own people, danger from Gentiles, danger in the city, danger in the wilderness, danger at sea, danger from false brethren; in toil and hardship, through many a sleepless night, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure. And, apart from other things, there is the daily pressure upon me of my anxiety for all the churches.
Thought for the Day: I know this is a bit longer passage than usual, but it is Paul’s resume. He probably would find that comment insulting, but it really feels as if he is laying out his case by telling all his troubles and the persecution he experienced at the hands of those who despised his teaching. I don’t know how successful he was with that approach, though I must confess that I am impressed in the sense that I don’t wish to experience what he did. With that said, I am more touched by Paul’s words around humility; his confessions around the “thorn” he carries with him; his boasting in his weakness. His suffering is worthy of great praise, but at the end of the day, are we really seeking great praise? Is that our goal? Or are we hoping that by the grace of God, and only by the grace of God, that our frail and fragile lives might somehow point to the love God has for all humanity?
Prayer: If my pride and ego ever grow beyond where they should, please find something with which to deflate them. This is my request, O Gracious and loving God. Amen.
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Entry into Lent
