As having nothing, yet possessing everything.

2 Corinthians 6:3-13, We put no obstacle in anyone’s way, so that no fault may be found with our ministry, but as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: by great endurance, in afflictions, hardships, calamities, beatings, imprisonments, riots, labors, sleepless nights, hunger; by purity, knowledge, patience, kindness, the Holy Spirit, genuine love; by truthful speech, and the power of God; with the weapons of righteousness for the right hand and for the left; through honor and dishonor, through slander and praise. We are treated as impostors, and yet are true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold, we live; as punished, and yet not killed; as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing everything. We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians; our heart is wide open. You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted in your own affections. In return (I speak as to children) widen your hearts also.

Paul’s commitment to the good news of Jesus Christ comes through in his own summary of their ministry. Few of us could say the same. Many present the good news of Jesus as an end to earthly trouble; clearly Paul did not see it that way. He was not possessed by his possession; he was gripped by the love of Christ and his willingness to suffer for His sake in order to make His name known! His affections were not for this world, but for eternity. Are we willing to throw aside our own restricted affections and widen our hearts to Him?

Give us eternal perspective and affection in all that we do and say; widen our hearts with your love today, Lord!

ESV Lectionary