We encourage you to read this devotion
three times a day. Start in the morning and reflect upon the morning
reflection question. Then in the afternoon, read it again and reflect using the
noon question for reflection. For the evening, take time to ponder how
this has resonated with you in the day and reflecting using the evening
question. We offer a prayer with each devotion for you to pray or we
invite you to pray what is in your heart.
2 Corinthians 4:1-6
Therefore,
since it is by God’s mercy that we are engaged in this ministry, we do not lose
heart. 2We have renounced the shameful things that one hides; we
refuse to practice cunning or to falsify God’s word; but by the open statement
of the truth we commend ourselves to the conscience of everyone in the sight of
God. 3And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who
are perishing. 4In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of
the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory
of Christ, who is the image of God. 5For we do not proclaim ourselves; we proclaim Jesus Christ as
Lord and ourselves as your slaves for Jesus’ sake. 6For
it is the God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” who has shone in our
hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus
Christ.
Reflection:
Let's
face it: ministry is hard work. Whether you are a pastor or a lay person, a
musician or a Sunday School teacher: doing ministry can lead, at times to
frustration, disappointment, and exhaustion. Although we are called by God to
participate in God's work in the world that work can be frustrating and at
times the results and fruits of our labor seem veiled from our eyes. If you
have ever felt this way about ministry listen to the words of Paul to the
Corinthians: we do not lose heart. This does not mean it will always be easy;
quite the opposite. If ministry was easy in our day or in Paul's he would not need to remind us that we will not
lose heart. We need this reminder, just as the Corinthians did, because at
times we may feel as though we are losing heart. When we are overwhelmed by a
task, tired after a late committee meeting, or left wondering if our efforts
have made a difference remember that it is by God's mercy that we are able to
engage in ministry and that through God's help, the light of Christ will shine
in us and through us.
Reflection Questions:
1. When is a
time that I have felt discouraged in my ministry?
2. How did Paul
lift up the Corinthians and how can his words help me?
3. Where have I
seen God's light shine through me?
Prayer: Lord,
at times it is difficult to act as your servant. Help me to feel you light and
to share that light even when I feel disheartened. Help me to turn to you for
help and renewal so that I may continue to share in the blessing of serving
you. Amen.
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