Daily Devotion for Lent 2021 - Day 27

Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 16

Paul ends his letter to Corinth by reminding them of their commitment to pay their apportionments collection to their organizing body in Jerusalem.

We see in verse eight that he's writing this from Ephesus.  Of course, we have the later letter to the Ephesians which reminds us of the fruit from the various journeys of Paul.  We also see in Acts that he intended to travel through Macedonia.

I do like how he lets them know after sending the instructions in this letter, "I hope to spend some time with you" which could be seen as a promise or a threat!  He might as well have said, "I hope you have these problems wrapped up by the time I arrive.  I'll be taking note!"

His concern for Timothy's reception reminds us that the conflict within the early church was ever-present.  As we think about the issues we may have in our 21st century pandemic congregations, they might be downright serene in comparison to Paul's experience.  

Nevertheless, verses 13-14 continue to apply to us today: 

Keep alert, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.

The network of people that Paul knows and employs for the work in Christ is helpful for us to remember that we are a part of the modern network of people that work in Christ.

As we move through Lent, the work that you once did may not be available to you right now.  What kinds of things do you hope to resume?  Is there work that God may be nudging you toward while you wait?

Prayer for the day:

Everlasting God, as we consider the names and places that were a part of the early church, we recognize that our history is broad and long.  We give thanks for all of those who kept the faith even through trial and temptation.  We pray for the church today and for those who will follow us.  May our actions lead others in this faithfulness.  In Christ we pray.  Amen. 

Photo by Jon Olav Eikenes via Flickr.com.  Used under the Creative Commons license.

All scripture quoted is from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.