God is faithful; by him you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” vs. 9
1 Corinthians 1:4-9
Paul showers the Corinthian congregation with generous affirmations in his salutation. They have able and gifted leaders, men and women who can speak with eloquence and knowledge, and on top of that they have been enriched with a multitude of spiritual gifts. They are an exemplary congregation. But that’s not what gives Paul reason for thanksgiving! He knows full well that these fine people are prone to deep divisions, and that their unity is in jeopardy because of their foolish pride and competitive nature. Those problems are the reason for his letter. Paul gives thanks because God is faithful! Ultimately that’s what it comes down to for every single one of us. We servants of Christ are a varied lot and we do possess a multitude of gifts. Some are knowledgeable and eloquent. But we are also possessed by a multitude of flaws and deficiencies. In a word, we are also sinners! And we’re going to stay that way. But we’ve got one big thing going for us: God is faithful! God is going to continue to be God no matter how we behave, and that is our hope and our salvation. Because God is who God is, we sinners are capable of extravagant love and bountiful goodness, and that’s why peace and joy can fill our hearts in spite of who we are. Of course we’re sinners, but we are also the redeemed of God!
Thought for the Day: How can one feel joy and guilt at the same time?
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