2 Corinthians 8:7-15 (NRSV)
Read 2 Corinthians 8:7-15 on biblegateway.com
Verse 7Now as you excel in everything-in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in utmost eagerness, and in our love for you-so we want you to excel also in this generous undertaking. Verse 8I do not say this as a command, but I am testing the genuineness of your love against the earnestness of others. Verse 9For you know the generous act of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich. Verse 10And in this matter I am giving my advice: it is appropriate for you who began last year not only to do something but even to desire to do something- Verse 11now finish doing it, so that your eagerness may be matched by completing it according to your means. Verse 12For if the eagerness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has-not according to what one does not have. Verse 13I do not mean that there should be relief for others and pressure on you, but it is a question of a fair balance between Verse 14your present abundance and their need, so that their abundance may be for your need, in order that there may be a fair balance. Verse 15As it is written, "The one who had much did not have too much, and the one who had little did not have too little."
Devotion
Today we commemorate Irenaeus, Bishop of Lyon and distinguished theologian (c. 202). He was known for his efforts to reconcile various sects in the early church – appropriate for a man whose name is Greek for “peace.” The date of his death is unknown, but according to the writings of Gregory of Tours, he was martyred for his faith.
The faith and story of Irenaeus continue to witness to how God’s love can empower and encourage us to know what to take a stand for and how to take it. To be a martyr today is to know how to walk in love and hope and beauty in anxious times.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for those who have gone before us, whose love-filled lives encourage us to walk in faith. Amen.