1 Corinthians 1:4-5
I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ;  That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge;

What of Today’s Verse…

The apostle Paul was amazing. He is writing one of the most problematic churches and yet finds reasons to give thanks for them. First, he is thankful for them because Jesus died for them. When God extends his grace to others, how can we not do the same? Second, he recognizes the areas of their abuse are also a reason to give thanks – they may have distorted it, but when reined in to honour God, these gifts could bless their church. Even though he has tough words to follow, Paul’s example reminds us that a child of God is something to be cherished, even if they have problems.

Let us Pray:

Gracious Father, give me the heart to see reasons to be thankful for all of your children. I confess that it is often so easy for me to view others based on how they view me, share my theological opinions, or how much trouble they cause me. Forgive me, for I know if you had done the same with me, I would have never been one of your children. Please help me rejoice in your children. Through Jesus I pray. Amen.’

Words of Wisdom

In the eating hall, a stuffed parrot hung from the ceiling, and from its golden beak dangled a card that read, “We are in training to be nobody special.” I had often repeated this to myself, working against my need for achievement and recognition, and the discontent that could engender. “I am in training to be nobody special.” Saying the words in my mind, I felt how they redirected me from a certain seductive struggle and excitement and disease, into a more stable focus: forget what they think of you, forget the future goal of achievement; arrive instead in this body/mind, attending to this present moment. This is the whole of practice.