December 6

1 Corinthians 5-9
Paul was constantly promoting grace.  I believe this was because he was so grateful for the grace shown him after he had so vigorously persecuted the church.  However, he offers this response to God’s grace: “For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.  And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.”  Much of what he writes following these words has to do with the Corinthian brethren giving a financial gift to help those in other places who are in need.  One of my early mentors would say that the contributions of a church are often a good barometer of their spiritual health.  As children of God, we are blessed beyond knowing in everything!  Sharing our wealth is but a small expression of our gratitude.  Unfortunately, for many, it is a very small expression.  What does Christ’s love compel you to do?