We continue our exploration of Paul's second letter to the Church of Corinth at the same time we all grieve the loss of our friend, teacher, and brother in Christ, Pastor Bill Lenz. 2 Corinthians 11:30-12:10 suggests a paradox in scripture. How can we Boast in Weakness? Earlier in 2 Corinthians, Paul tells us that we are like a fragile clay pot with a treasure of gold inside us. The pot is our struggles in this world and the gold is the Holy Spirit living through us. Boasting of our struggles in this world, the "thorn in our side," draws us closer to God. It acknowledges that only He can provide the relief we long for and that relief is the grace of our Lord and the promise of eternal life--eternal life secured by Christ's suffering, death, and resurrection.
Romans 12:2 tells us: "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."