From the day we heard about you, we do not cease praying for you and asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of God’s will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, so as to be fully pleasing, in every good work bearing fruit and growing in the knowledge of God, strengthened with every power, in accord with his glorious might, for all endurance and patience, with joy giving thanks to the Father, who has made you fit to share in the inheritance of the holy ones in light.
Given his enthusiasm for the Gospel, his astonishing insight into its many facets, and his extraordinary affection for the people of God, we should not be surprised at Saint Paul's prolix writing. He probably spoke that way too. And it served him well when his congregation was caught up in the same spirit. I have heard of preachers like Saint Francis and Anthony who held the attention of a crowds for hours at a time as the words of grace flowed from their hearts.
But sentences like the one above, from today's reading from the letter to the Colossians, are like jawbreakers. Don't try to swallow them quickly! They're recorded, treasured, and offered to us for contemplation.
Saint Paul is describing the life of the Christian. They are pleasing to God in every way as they comply to the promptings of God's spirit. They are governed by spiritual wisdom and understanding rather than the silly impulses of current fads. They bear good fruit even as they grow in the knowledge of God. They are strengthened with the power of healing, reassurance, and guidance even through trials. Their endurance and patience shine with joy and gratitude.
These are gifts to which we aspire, knowing that we cannot fake them. Before asking the Lord to give us patient endurance, we should fasten our seatbelts, double check our helmets, and make sure we've enough spiritual fuel to traverse an expanse wider than the Mojave desert. We should expect a harrowing adventure into serious distress. Before we're halfway across we'll see a signpost, "With God all things are possible!" Reading these words in despair, we discover hope. Along that desert route we'll also come across the bones of those who never made it.
In this prolix sentence Saint Paul prays for his people because he depends on their prayers as they depend on his. A solitary Christian is an oxymoron, or just a moron. We need each other. We pray for each other. We sometimes rebuke one another. Enjoy your trip!
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.