Todays readings.. 2 Kings 9, Lamentations 5, 2 Corinthians 3&4

The 4^th chapter of Paul’s 2^nd letter to the Corinthians ends with the above ‘ triumphant’ statement.  Paul is reassured and reassures others who possess “the same spirit of faith” [v.13], triumphantly stating that – “knowing that he who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and bring us with you into his presence.” [v.14].   Let us make sure we can say the same – because we have embraced the same wondrous faith that Paul had – and wrote about..

In the 1^st Century .spearheaded by the faith and efforts of Paul  – and this “spirit of faith” began to spread to “more and more people … to the glory of God.” [v.15]  And now it has spread to us!  But so many are blind to it – until there is very little “glory” for God!  It is to the “glory of God” that some still read his word day by day!   Do let us hope that there be a positive answer to the question Jesus asked, “…when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”[Luke 18 v.8]

Over the centuries many have been the afflictions that have often occurred to those who followed in the footsteps of Paul, although few have suffered them to the same extent.  How wonderfully positive Paul was! What an example for all who tried to follow in his footsteps!  Let us take right into our hearts the way his chapter today ends!

“… our inner self is being renewed day by day.  For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.”