Friday, July 31, 2026

Scripture

“I will most gladly spend and be spent for you.”  2 Corinthians 12:15a

Reflections

Can you think of anyone you know whose life is headed in the wrong direction?

Children are baptized and confirmed within the Church.  Sometimes after being confirmed, they fall away from Christ.  Their lives head in a different direction.  Parents who truly love their children will feel it within their hearts.  The choices of the child become the pains of the parent.  That is the price of love.

The Apostle Paul gave of himself to the people of Corinth.  He shared the gospel.  He discipled them.  He had hopes they would continue in the faith.  But then false apostles appeared, teaching things contrary to the true gospel.  They started turning away from the truth.  No doubt, Paul was grieved.  Their choices became his pain.  He didn’t give up on them.  He sought to return to them and renew their faith.

We walk with others as they discover and grow in Christ.  When they turn away from Christ, we are devastated.  Our hearts break.  But we still love them.  We never give up on them.  We do what we can.  Sometimes it may mean talking with them.  Sometimes it may mean praying for them.

Love can be costly—but it’s always worth it.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for the gospel of Jesus Christ.  Help me to stay close to your word, never deviating from the truth.  Grant me your strength and perseverance as I disciple others.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:11-18