This was one of my favourite passages long before I became a Senior Citizen. But yes, it does grow more meaningful as one's body ages. I have preached from it a few times when speaking to a Senior's group. Of course it is also (or should I say especially) a rich passage for the many believers who suffer serious persecution. It is also very relevant for those who at any age are battling serious illness or injury.
I am speaking of II Corinthians 4:13 - 5:10. Paul begins with the affirmation that "the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus". (14) Paul then draws a masterful comparison and contrast between present difficulties and future "glory".
Outwardly wasting away - inwardly renewed day by day
Light momentary troubles - eternal glory that far outweighs them
earthly tent - eternal building in heaven
mortal groaning and longing - swallowed up by life
home in the body - at home with the Lord
When I imagine the pain and loss Paul endured as he served the Lord Jesus (see II Corinthians 11), I marvel that he describes it all as "light and momentary". The little physical suffering I have endured (helped by pain medication) did not seem light nor momentary. Yet Paul in looking back and knowing that more suffering lies ahead, uses these surprising words. We know why. For Paul, the risen Christ and the eternal future in His presence was dramatically real. Compared to his expectation of this future "glory" - being in the presence of Christ, being rewarded for faithful, sacrificial service - made present suffering not only bearable but made it seem "light and momentary."
Lord, help us to gain a greater appreciation for what lies ahead so that we will have a endure with joy the hardships of life in these deteriorating bodies living on this sin scarred planet.
I am speaking of II Corinthians 4:13 - 5:10. Paul begins with the affirmation that "the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus". (14) Paul then draws a masterful comparison and contrast between present difficulties and future "glory".
Outwardly wasting away - inwardly renewed day by day
Light momentary troubles - eternal glory that far outweighs them
earthly tent - eternal building in heaven
mortal groaning and longing - swallowed up by life
home in the body - at home with the Lord
When I imagine the pain and loss Paul endured as he served the Lord Jesus (see II Corinthians 11), I marvel that he describes it all as "light and momentary". The little physical suffering I have endured (helped by pain medication) did not seem light nor momentary. Yet Paul in looking back and knowing that more suffering lies ahead, uses these surprising words. We know why. For Paul, the risen Christ and the eternal future in His presence was dramatically real. Compared to his expectation of this future "glory" - being in the presence of Christ, being rewarded for faithful, sacrificial service - made present suffering not only bearable but made it seem "light and momentary."
Lord, help us to gain a greater appreciation for what lies ahead so that we will have a endure with joy the hardships of life in these deteriorating bodies living on this sin scarred planet.
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