2
Corinthians 6:1–13—In Sunday’s
epistle reading, St Paul speaks of his experiences as Christ’s Ambassador of
Reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:20). He tells of these things not to boast, but
because what people see in the messenger affects the credibility of the
message.
In verse 6, he speaks of the reason he was able to
withstand these hardships and still bring forth the fruits of righteousness: it
is solely the work of God, especially the Holy Spirit. God, the Creator of all
things, is also able to create the New Man, who lives before God in
righteousness and purity.
“Control” is not a popular word for modern people. Each wants
to do his/her own thing. He/she claims freedom of thought and life. Each one lets him/herself go and do anything
he/she wants if it brings pleasure. Modern human beings despise control,
restrictions, and discipline. Paul says his life is controlled by the love of
Christ. He is not out to do what he wants to do but what Christ wants him to
do, He does it because he love the One who loved him to the point of dying for
him.
Because of his being in
Christ, Paul has a new attitude and perspective on Christ and people. Before
Christ he looked at them from a human point of view. He saw Jesus as another
human being; people were people. Being in Christ, he now looks at Christ from a
divine perspective. Christ is God’s Son, the Messiah, Lord, and Savior. People
are now regarded as God’s creation and potential children of God. This high
regard for Christ and people as of infinite worth makes them deserve our
concern and care.[2]
Prayer for one suffering from anxiety, apprehension, or fear: O most loving Father, You want us to give thanks for all things, to fear nothing except losing You, and to lay all our cares on You, knowing that You care for us. Strengthen [name] in [his/her] faith in You. Grant that the fears and anxieties of this mortal life may not separate [him/her] from Your love shown to us in Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, [3] -17 June 2021—
[1]-Schnorr Von Carolsfeld woodcuts “Jesus asleep in the ship” copyright © WELS for personal and congregational use
[2] Lectionary Preaching Work Book Series B, John Brokhoff © 1981 CSS Publishing, Lima, OH
[3] A Prayer for those who suffer from anxiety, Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St, Louis
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