2 Corinthians 4-6

After about 15 minutes I finished this passage, pondering one thought that I could note. Paul had much to say to those first century believers; words that are just as alive 20 centuries later. In the first part of chapter 5 Paul notes one of the truthes that keeps him motivated to live out his faith; a picture of heaven. In the Message he says, "We've been given a glimpse of the real thing, our true home, our resurrection bodies!" I have to ask myself how often I ponder Jesus' resurrection, as well as my own? Jesus promised that each person would face the judgment, but some would be cut off because of their rejection of Jesus, while others would be resurrected through God's grace. Paul understood that wonder. He understood because of the contrast with the conditions of this life.  This life is filled with pain and loss, but dotted with an occasional joy. The eternal life in Christ is continual joy without a speck of pain and loss. When we can fully grasp that difference, the lure of this world will fade away.
Stuart