Having Nothing, Possessing Everything

2 Corinthians 6:1-13

Old age is when the strength of our faith is laid bare for all to see. The layers have been stripped away and we find out whether or not God in Jesus Christ is sufficient in and for all things. When we have nothing, do we still possess everything? This is not just a question that concerns us. It is at this crucial time that we demonstrate to others, especially future generations, whether or not our faith has any validity.

Paul states that he can commend himself, his work, and workers. They have not put any stumbling blocks in anyone's path. In spite of numerous "troubles, hardships and distresses," they have remained faithful. We can identify with some of their hardships--"poverty, imprisonment [being homebound], sleepless nights, regarded as unknown [overlooked, discounted, unappreciated], dying yet living on." Paul adds beatings, being misunderstood, and regarded as impostors to the list. Yet in the midst of all of this Paul and his followers have not blemished the faith they proclaim. They have not caused others to doubt the worth of the One they preach. In the midst of all their hardships they have remained pure. They have been understanding, patient and kind in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love.

When others look at how we face our hardships--the loss of loved ones, the downsizing of our worldly goods, the dwindling of our savings, the loss of productivity, the limitations of the body--do they find that our faith still shines through? Are we sending them the message that even though we have lost so much we have not lost the eternal, central, most precious core of our life? If not, those around may be asking, "What's the point?" Why do all the "churchy" stuff if in the end we end up just like everyone else? If we end up depressed, angry, critical, cynical, self-pitying, and negative--who needs it! This is the time we demonstrate if we have been followers only to see the "signs and wonders" (the outer blessings) or if we are followers of Jesus Christ because we believe in his person and work, we value his friendship, and we know that we will spend eternity with him. Paul, in spite of all the difficulties his apostleship entailed, found Jesus to be sufficient. Even in his worst moments when he had "Nothing", Paul had everything. We too have our all in Jesus. Regardless of how difficult old age may become, Jesus is all we could need or want. He is everything!

What do you need?