The Set-Up:
History is a great storyteller.
Recently I heard a true story about the governor of Illinois during the civil war era. Governor Richard Yates felt compelled to do something meaningful for the young soldiers from his state who volunteered to serve in the war. He concluded that the most helpful thing he could provide was quality medical care, so he recruited the top doctors and nurses from the Springfield, Illinois area and brought them to the frontlines of the civil war to tend to the young soldiers who had been wounded. His act of leadership along with the higher quality doctors saved many lives simply by getting the best care possible to the soldiers who needed it most.
In this specific passage of 1 Corinthians, Paul is essentially urging believers to do the same. He invites us to share in the weakness of those who are weak and to do all we can to save some.
Passages to Read:
I Corinthians 9:22-23; Matthew 25:40
Reflection Questions:
How would you define the quality of empathy and how do you view its role in our culture today?
Where do you view the spiritual “frontline” in our society today — that space where we, as believers, engage in our great mission of making disciples of all nations?
In what ways can you practice what Paul is teaching here about connecting with those who are viewed as “weak” or who, perhaps, have been “wounded” on the frontlines of our culture and need the hope of the Gospel?
Prayer Idea:
Today, take a moment to think of people who you connect with regularly (at work, school, neighborhood, etc…) who may be viewed as “weak” or far from Jesus. Pray for them by name and ask the Holy Spirit to give you ideas on how you can show them the love of Christ in a tangible way.
This devotional was written by Nathan.