1-2Since God has so generously let us in on what he is doing, we're not about to throw up our hands and walk off the job just because we run into occasional hard times. We refuse to wear masks and play games. We don't maneuver and manipulate behind the scenes. And we don't twist God's Word to suit ourselves. Rather, we keep everything we do and say out in the open, the whole truth on display, so that those who want to can see and judge for themselves in the presence of God. (The Message)
One of the problems the early church dealt with was that there were people who spread the idea that there was secret information about Jesus/God that if you knew that information you were guarantied entry into heaven. Paul though makes it clear that there is nothing that he or those with him have done in secret. He puts it all out there and wants to make sure everyone knows that he isn't hiding anything from them.
Paul wanted the Corinthians to know that he is who he is and doesn't play games or put on a false front for them. It is a life that Jesus encourages when he tells his disciples that their yes should be yes and their no should be no. It is also a life that each of us should try to emulate.
Some thoughts to ponder and share with others:
- Why do you think it was important to Paul that everyone knew that he was always trying to be sure that he was transparent about Jesus?
- When you hear others talk about Jesus do you trust that what they are saying is true or do you look for what is not being said?
- What is easier for you to be transparent or to ware a mask and hide from others? Why?
- What message do you think you send to people when you are not transparent?
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