2 Corinthians 10: Strength through Weakness
Fourth Sunday of Easter, May 12, 2019
We frequently hear about Paul’s boasting in the Lord. Today, if we look more closely, we will see that there is a finer, deeper meaning with these words. Our physical bodies act according to the flesh. These bodies house our spirits which are enormously powerful, capable of destroying fortresses.
When we read this chapter we understand that we are sent to be God’s Word. We are sent to be God’s Healing. We are sent to be God’s Presence. We are sent to be God to one another. We are sent to teach, to proclaim, to witness . . . and when necessary, as St. Francis says, we use words.
Our lives, our actions speak more loudly than words.
Our words are formed by our thoughts.
Our thoughts are formed by our souls.
Our souls are formed by God.
When we become confused, all we need do is return to The Word.
Do not be afraid. (Mt 10:31)
You are precious in my eyes. (Is 43:4)
Rejoice to the extent that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that when his glory is revealed you may also rejoice exultantly. (1 Pt 4:13)
I, the Lord, am with you always, until the end of the world. (Mt 28:20)
Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him, do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. (Ps 37:7) Be still and know that I am God. (Ps 46:10)
Return to your scabbard; cease and be still. (Jer 47:6)
Quiet! Be still! Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith? (Ma 4:39; 40)
Sometimes the noise of the world drowns out The Word. Paul urges us with the gentleness and clemency of Christ, to be humble, to be patient, to care for one another, take every thought captive in obedience to Christ . . . be confident in belonging to Christ . . . For it is not the one who recommends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord recommends.
With Christ as our shield and our armor, we need do nothing more than live our lives as the Lord recommends.
A re-post from April 27, 2012.
Image from: http://www.art.com/products/p12350813-sa-i1731395/medieval-sword-and-shield-montage.htm
Written on May 6, 2008 and posted today as a Favorite.
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