Monday, April 19, 2004
Monday, April 19, 2004
But though we had already suffered and been shamefully mistreated at Philippi,
as you know, we had courage in our God to declare to you the gospel of God in spite of great
opposition.
(1 Thessalonians 2.2
NRSV)
He sent out word throughout the kingdom that he would give an enormous reward to anyone who could repair his diamond.
No one came forward. All the best diamond cutters feared failure. Then an artist offered to rescue the diamond. "Its greatest flaw shall be its most splendid glory," he announced confidently. Taking the diamond, he kept it in his possession for many weeks. Then he returned it to the king.
As the king unveiled his precious stone, he held his breath. Perhaps the artist's hand had slipped, and the stone was now worthless. Perhaps he was a fraud and a scoundrel. Slowly, carefully, the king unwrapped the diamond, and then catching a glimpse of his priceless treasure he caught his breath. The artist had turned the hair-like flaw into the stem of an exquisite rose carved delicately into the diamond. Truly it was more beautiful than ever before.
That is the story of the cross. A symbol of shame transformed into a means of salvation. It can be the story of your life and mine as well. We will face opposition in life. By God's grace, however, opposition can be turned to opportunity. If nothing else, we will be drawn closer to Him who is our Life.
Dear Jesus, speak in whispers of grace to those who need to turn their opposition into an opportunity for you. Amen.
