Lenten Devotion: March 24th

  • March 24, 2014

1 Corinthians 7:25-31

“. . . it is well for you to remain as you are.

As the family “expert” in trying to explore all sides of a situation before making a decision, I can picture myself as a participant in this vibrant, new, religious community at Corinth. I am struggling to determine just what it really means to be called to be a saint.

Paul says that something big is going to take place, and we need to be prepared. What does that mean? I love God, and despite disagreeing with some of these people around me, I want to be a part of His Church. What should I do? What if I do the “wrong” thing? Shouldn’t there be rules that are the same for everyone?

Should I run out and stock up on food … or carpets … or gold coins?
Are only pure single folks eligible to be chosen?
Must I forget all of my sadness at the death of loved ones and behave as if life is perpetually pleasant?
Do I need to withdraw from my worldly connections and spend every minute in prayer?

I have not appreciated everything that Paul has had to say about how I must live to prepare for the new world to come, but in this message there is comfort for me. He is speaking as a trustworthy messenger of the Lord. Not a law. Not a commandment. Rather, an opinion that in light of what is to come, it is wise for me to remain who I am.

Dear God, I am thankful for this hint from Paul that I am acceptable as I am. As I seek to know Your will, may I always endeavor to discover and live the life to which You have called me. Amen

~Ann B.