2 Corinthians 1:18-22 (NRSV)
Read 2 Corinthians 1:18-22 on biblegateway.com
Verse 18As surely as God is faithful, our word to you has not been "Yes and No." Verse 19For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, whom we proclaimed among you, Silvanus and Timothy and I, was not "Yes and No"; but in him it is always "Yes." Verse 20For in him every one of God's promises is a "Yes." For this reason it is through him that we say the "Amen," to the glory of God. Verse 21But it is God who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us, Verse 22by putting his seal on us and giving us his Spirit in our hearts as a first installment.
Devotion
It is an occupational danger for clergy. In our efforts to serve the many and varied needs of our sisters and brothers, we risk becoming or being perceived as, well, wishy-washy. As we attempt to do what is good and needful in a myriad of circumstances, we appear to be unfocused, without map or compass, people who say “yes” and “no” at the same time.
We’re not alone! Paul has been accused of vacillating, one who says “yes” and “no.” We can imagine his challenges: trying to make his past meaningful in the present; using different gifts and approaches to serve the needs of a diverse community; being as faithful as possible to Christ’s calling.
Paul’s response is not to defend himself, but Christ. Emphatically he declares that Christ never vacillates. Christ’s promise is always true, always “yes.” This is a good word for us all.
Prayer
Hold us close in your promise that we may live fully into your holy “yes.” Amen.