As you begin your scripture reading, consider last week’s scriptures and return to any that are staying with you. Or, once again take time to read and consider the scripture below.
Introduction
2 Corinthians 12:7-10 I am called like Paul to accept myself as I am—even my weakness—in order that God’s power can operate through my weakness.
Presence: Take two deep cleansing breaths, remembering that God is the giver of life. “Here I am God. Thank you for your presence.”
Read 2 Corinthians 12:6-10 twice, once silently and once audibly.
Even if I should choose to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will think more of me than is warranted by what I do or say, or because of these surpassingly great revelations. Therefore, in order to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
Gospel Contemplation
How do you respond to these words of Paul? Since God’s strength and power are made perfect when I am weak, what is your prayer? Can you take all the words of your prayer and make them an intimate “breath prayer?” For example, repeating: Come Lord God, be strong in my weakness,” or “help me remember, I don’t always have to be strong.” Repeat your “breath prayer” for several minutes, finishing with a simple “amen.”
Reflect on your prayer experience and its impact and meaning for your life.
Journal your prayer and experience of this time.
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