“I thank my God always concerning you, for the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus” (1 Corinthians 1:4) In the weeks ahead, we may look back and wonder how Paul could have been thankful for this group. For 16 chapters in 1 Corinthians and 12 more in 2 Corinthians he struggles with these folks on many theological and moral issues. They are arguing among themselves. They condone immorality and misuse spiritual gifts. This church is a mess! But they are also people in whom Paul sees the grace of God at work and he is thankful. It is a good reminder to me. No wrong or weakness should take away my gratitude for people in God’s family. We are all flawed. Rather than reject others for their imperfections, I am to be thankful and vested in their growth. If God has given me grace, and He has, then I should return the favor by giving it to others. More as the week continues. My love to you, dear friends. Don
