Today’s scripture: 2 Cor 6:1-13 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Linda Bernabie):
In today’s passage, Paul tells us to let God’s grace flow through us so we may live our lives as close to Jesus’ sinless perfection as we can. We should strive to walk in Jesus’ footsteps, knowing that we will never be able to do it with the perfection that he did.
To walk in Jesus’ footsteps does not mean we must become evangelical or radical, or that we must preach theological words of beauty and wisdom. We become “Christ like” with simple things like: acts of kindness, a helping hand, comforting words, acts of charity, compassion, mercy, and love for others. If you have ever shown compassion for someone, you were walking in Jesus’ footsteps and may not have even realize it!
One of my walks:
Years ago, while shopping, I bumped into a church acquaintance. I walked up to her and said, “Hi, how are you?” She gave me half of a smile and responded, “I’m okay.” It was clear that she was hurting, but, like most of us, she thought that no one really wanted to listen to her problems. Seeing through her unsuccessful attempt at deception, I hugged her and said, “You look like you need a friend. How about we find a place and get something to drink … my treat.” Reluctantly, she said, “Yes.”
Soon after we sat down, she started to cry and began expressing her unhappiness: “Everyday, life is ripping me apart. Everything I do seems to be wrong. I look around at everyone else, and they all have these wonderful, happy, contented lives. Why can’t I be happy like everyone else? What is wrong with me?” She continued on for about an hour. After unburdening herself, she said something that will stay with me forever. She confided, “I do a great job of hiding my struggles, and I do my best to keep on ‘my happy face.’ I never show my tears, but that doesn’t mean I don’t cry. I never show my pain, but that doesn’t mean I don’t hurt. I smile, but I am not happy.”
During this entire conversation, I didn’t say much — but, like Jesus, I gave her my full attention, trust, and compassion. After she finished her story, I reached across the table, laid my hands on hers, and said, “Your heart is closed to God’s grace. It is time to reopen it and go to God in prayer.” My simple, inadequate words were nothing profound. I provided no suggestions, action plan, or quick fix. I had only given her a shoulder to cry on, and an outlet for her frustration.
In church the following Sunday, she came up to me, put her arms around me, and whispered, “You are my Jesus. Your kindness and thoughtfulness made a difference in my life. Thank you.”
I had taken a walk in Jesus’ footsteps, and he took me to a wonderful place!
Quote for the Day: “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God’s kindness: kindness in your face, in your eyes, in your smile. If you approach life this way, always looking for ways to build instead of to tear down, you’ll be amazed at how much happiness you can give to others and find for yourself.” —Mother Teresa
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.