Paul closes his first letter to the Corinthians by setting out his plans for a visit. Don’t we often do the same when we communicate with loved ones far away about planning to visit? Today it might look a little different, like a quick text or a voicemail alerting folks to an upcoming visit. As missionaries, we look forward to those yearly quick trips to see family and friends back in the States.
Even more importantly, Paul talks about the giving of gifts back to the ministry in Jerusalem. Paul is describing a type of tithe to the founding church along with a good plan for budgeting the gift. We might do the same today with a spreadsheet, setting a certain portion aside from our wages so that we can tithe to the local church and give generously to other ministries. It’s always best to set aside the money intentionally so it doesn’t get spent by mistake.
Aside from travel plans and a terrific suggestion about how to prepare money for a ministry gift, did any of Paul’s closing speak to you? I was impressed by Paul’s dedication to God’s will and direction for his travels. Especially when he said, “if the Lord will let me.” Paul wanted to stay for a prolonged visit, but he realized God might have other plans. He would be letting God lead.
I may have said something similar when asked if we would ever move back to the United States. For now, both my husband and I feel like Mexico is our home. But we are both open to God moving us anywhere. We ended up in Mexico by the grace of God nearly ten years ago, and he has blessed us richly. If the Lord lets us, we will move back to be closer to family. We are keeping our eyes open for that perfect open door when God says it’s time.
Of course, these words from Paul are good to hear anytime. “Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love.” Paul wants us to be a lot of things, but to do everything we do with love. You’ll recall a couple of readings ago focused on the kind of love Paul would be referring to.
These action steps from Paul set us up for success in life. We can only aspire to do a good job with this. These are great daily reminders to keep us focused on God and not on our problems or on the atrocities we see happening around us. We can accomplish such things with the power of God when we accept the spiritual gifts from the Holy Spirit. Remembering to always come from a place of love creates a more harmonious community or relationship, too.
Above all, we should love the Lord. It’s great to be welcoming to other believers, but we should always be mindful of how we’re building our relationship with Jesus. From my own experience, the closer I draw to the Lord, the more love I have to share with others. It’s like the love of Jesus inside me spills out a little onto those around me.
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, you are so important to me, and I treasure the relationship I am building with you. Thank you for desiring that with me; I feel so special. Strengthen me with your power and wisdom so that I can face the struggles of life. I stand guard over my heart as I wait for your return. Help me not be led astray. May I be loving to others as I share about you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
