29 Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is made to fall, and I am not indignant?
30 If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.
There is something rather poignant in seeing a grown man cry. It could be unendurable sorrow at the loss of a loved one, or a career crashing in ignominy. Either way, the tears betray a weakness, not a sentiment well regarded in American society. The old western films and cop shows feature a fearless tough guy who bursts into danger with guns blazing. Such is the view of some of Paul, based on his encounters with Peter and Barnabas. In chapters 10 -12 of 2 Corinthians, we see that there is no machismo in Paul’s boasting. In fact, he was not boasting of his accomplishments, planting churches and making disciples, but of being pounded by rods and stones, whipped, and shipwrecked. This is not the stuff statues are built for.
Paul was not posing for a statue. He was serving and suffering for the suffering servant, Jesus Christ. His boasting was in stark contrast to the boasting of his opponents. We can learn a lot from this, especially in a society where weakness is frowned upon. God smiles on our weakness. It means we are right where he wants us and can best use us. It is in that moment that our strength is spent and our weakness is our best ally. Jesus is our strong tower. We are called to take refuge in it instead of building our own tower.
Dear Lord, thank you for our weakness and your infinite strength. Help us to surrender to your power and stop chasing power ourselves. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church