Sunday, June 16, 2013

Dangers along the Way

"We cause no one to stumble in anything, in order that no fault may be found with our ministry." 2 Cor 6:3

Despite our best efforts, we often get lost on our Gospel pilgrimage. We get too busy or not busy enough. We waste time or crush too many tasks into a small window of time, and all these behaviors distract us from our primary role as Christians, to witness to the saving love of Jesus Christ in our daily lives.

Almost the entire second letter to the Corinthians is Paul's attempt to convince his opponents that his motives are pure and his message clear. He does not want to do anything to separate permanently from them or discourage them from following their own pilgrim paths, but he does need to warn them that they are not at one with the rest of the community. After his warnings, Paul, like us, must be patient and wait for God to work.

Waiting is almost always anxiety producing. Not knowing what we must do or how best to address difficulties within ourselves or our communities can lead to poor choices when we try to force solutions. Paul's willingness to work with his opponents and his struggle to find an honest path of reconciliation should fill us all with hope.

Today, do nothing about a difficult situation. Pray.

Who taught you most about how to keep your focus during trying times?


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