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2 Corinthians 2:1-4, So I made up my mind that I would not make another painful visit to you.  For if I grieve you, who is left to make me glad but you whom I have grieved?  I wrote as I did, so that when I came I would not be distressed by those who should have made me rejoice. I had confidence in all of you, that you would all share my joy. For I wrote you out of great distress and anguish of heart and with many tears, not to grieve you but to let you know the depth of my love for you.

Paul could not visit the Corinthians because he was forced to make an emergency trip to Ephesus.  He sent his previous letter instead.  This created discord within the church.  Not only were they upset with the tone of the letter but they were upset that Timothy rather than Paul delivered it.  As mentioned yesterday, certain individuals had risen up to challenge Paul because of this. 

Paul has an interesting response to their challenge.  Rather than getting angry, as many of us might, he wants to assure them of his deep love for them and their dependence on one another.  He isn't the kind of leader who lords authority over them. (Reread 1:23-24) Rather, they belong to each other.  He is their coworker in the movement of the Gospel. 

Are you aware that as the body of Jesus Christ, we all belong to God but we also belong to each other.  Our work in the Lord is dependent on one another.  We need one another.  We are not independent contractors for Jesus out there on our own trying to share the Good News.  Rather, we are all in this together, helping and supporting each other, praying for one another, and encouraging each other in our work. 

Let's pray...Lord Jesus, Help us learn to rely on you and one another in our work for the Gospel.  Help us live as people who belong to you and to other members of the body.  More of you, less of me.  In Your Name, Amen.