Beleaguered Ambassador

An ambassador is usually accorded honor and respect as he goes about fulfilling his mission in the host country. Our mission for Christ, however, is to a hostile country in a time of war–our enemy does not respect the rules! Far from being given a free hand in fulfilling his duties, Paul’s catalogue of woes (4,5) is but one example of the disgraceful treatment he experienced at the hands of those to whom he was sent (2 Cor. 11:23-27).

How other people treated him was their own affair. Paul’s responsibility was to remain faithful to his commission whatever the cost. First, he never lost sight of his status as a servant of God (4). With the fruit of the Holy Spirit evident in his life (6-7; Gal. 5:22-23), he not only survived but thrived, in spite of all that was thrown at him. Second, he never lost sight of his mission. That mission was to demonstrate to lost sinners the saving grace of God in the Lord Jesus Christ, and the way he reacted to his circumstances could easily have compromised his message and become an obstacle to his audience. The artless candor of his appeal at the end of our reading could not have been lost on the Corinthians (11-13)!

We may not be apostles like Paul, but our calling and situation are not significantly different. We should not be surprised, then, when the world does not accord us fair treatment, or even when we encounter persecution, be it subtle or flagrant. Are we in danger of losing sight of our mission on account of the way we are treated? By our words, actions or reactions, are we in danger of putting obstacles in anybody’s way? The messenger is part of the message!

Consider the plight of fellow Christians facing severe persecution today. How are you being faithful to your calling in your life situation? Pray for those who are struggling.