A paradox is a phrase that seems to be self-contradictory, backward, and impossible—like “less is more†or “this sentence is false.†Paradoxes might seem confusing, but they make you think and often reveal deep, important truths.
The gospel, which is the good news of Jesus, is a story full of opposites, and the book of 2 Corinthians beautifully illustrates many of the paradoxes of following Jesus. Jesus is the Son of God, who is both fully God and fully human. He had all power in heaven, but in order to save us from our sin, He came to earth as a human, limited and weak. He is King of everything, yet He came to serve. Though He never sinned—never did anything wrong—He died and took the punishment our sins deserved. He let people do wrong to Him so that He could cleanse us from all our wrongdoing. And from His death, He brought life. Jesus rose from the dead and gave eternal life to everyone who puts their trust in Him.
When we choose to follow Jesus, we get to participate in the seemingly backwards gospel. Though this life is hard, when we fix our eyes on God’s promise of eternal life and live in the faith He gives us, our perspective changes. We find life in death and see that even if we have nothing in the present, we have everything in eternity. We have joy in suffering, comfort in struggles, and hope in trials. When we are weak, we can find strength in God. Even amidst uncertainty, we have confidence, boldness, and freedom because of what Jesus has done for us.
Now, as Christians, we get to be Christ’s ambassadors, comforting and supporting each other and sharing the good news of the paradoxical gospel with the world. • Abby Ciona
• What hard things are you facing today? When we come to God, He provides the comfort, hope, and strength we need to do what He calls us to do. Consider taking a moment to talk to God about whatever is on your mind.
• Where might God be giving you opportunities to comfort and support others today?
• If you want to dig deeper into the theme of paradoxes in the Bible, check out Matthew 20:1-28, John 12:23-25, and Philippians 2:6-11.
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich. 2 Corinthians 8:9 (NIV)
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