Today at Mass, as we heard the words of St. Paul, originally written to the people of Corinth, that he was given a thorn in the flesh, to avoid over elation at all the amazing revelations he has received since his "road to Damascus" experience. Despite wanting this "thorn" to be taken away, St. Paul clearly states that the Lord responds: "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness."
What was St. Paul's "thorn". Will we ever know? Many Scripture scholars believe it would have been some type of physical ailment that remained with him on his evangelizing journeys. Others believe St. Paul may have been affected by a mental challenge while one prominent scholar boldly identifies his thorn as depression. In all reality, does it really matter? Of course, the answer is no.
What St. Paul was sharing with the people of Corinth, and ultimately to the whole world, including you and me today, is that Jesus Christ is enough; that Jesus Christ is the all in all. We are encouraged to place our whole self in trusting Jesus. Even when things are oing our way, even if we be in charge of a church ministry and we find ourselves receiving accolades for said ministry, it ain't us; it's him. Do not become over elated, over emphasizing self importance. Rather, remember from whom all this comes and who our great example is. Trust Jesus.
Maybe the thorn in our side is our family, our friends; perhaps it may be our work or our hobbies. Maybe that thorn is our approach to even our faith, our volunteer efforts or any ministries trusted to us. If we believe that we are doing a great job or operating on all cylinders because of OURSELVES, then yes Lord, send me a thorn. Go ahead Lord, right my ship, straighten me out, refocus my focus.
In the week ahead, can we be aware of our own personal relationship with Jesus Christ; do we center our lives on Him, do we trust Him fully? Do we understand that our strength comes from Him. Yes, do we find our strength in our own weaknesses which help us turn back more fully to Him? Use this week to answer these questions. Make note of those times when you are iving up, or, when you think look at me; ain't I wonderful. And ask yourself, do I have Jesus in my sights; is He the center of my life; is He my one true strength?
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