2 Corinthians 6:8b-13, Widen Your Heart

8b We are treated as impostors, and yet are true; 9 as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold, we live; as punished, and yet not killed; 10 as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing everything.

11 We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians; our heart is wide open. 12 You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted in your own affections. 13 In return (I speak as to children) widen your hearts also.

Paul gives us a list of an equipped sage, armed by God against the ups and downs of ministry and mission. The point is not only that Paul has endured, but he has kept his character intact with integrity. He is an authentic apostle. Go back over the list and notice its Christological character. Paul redefines what it means to be a wise leader and servant of Christ in light of the Passion of Jesus.

Paul’s point is that the Corinthians’ problem is not of Paul’s making but of their own. Something is drawing them away from Jesus and his likeness. They are not growing in Christlikeness but moving in the opposite direction. The example he gives them is himself—his character and his actions. And with his heart wide open, he does all of this in love, reflecting his Savior whose heart was wide open on the cross.

Paul wants them to assume again their proper relationship with him, but for now he must treat them like children. He has plenteous love for them; they need to have the same for him. To widen their hearts is to reconcile with him. Divine love is always reconciling love. Where do you need to seek reconciliation in your life? Where do you need to be modeling divine love? Make a list and pray over it.

Reflection:

May the power of your love, Lord Christ, fiery and sweet as honey, so absorb our hearts as to withdraw them from all that is under heaven. Grant that we may be ready to die for love of your love, as you died for love of our love.

-- Francis of Assisi, 1182-1226