“When we arrived in Macedonia, we were restless and almost running on fumes. We faced conflict from every direction, with battles on the outside and fear on the inside. But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted and encouraged us when Titus showed up. His presence was a joy” (pp 2Cor.7:5-7).
Lord Jesus, the passing stories in the Bible are often deliver eternal blessing. I’m grateful for this story of a depleted, fearful, conflicted Apostle Paul. I’d never compare my situation to Paul’s, but I am feeling my “humanity” plus a deep ache for the Day of all things new.
I’m grateful the Gospel frees us from posing and pretending. It makes us more human, not less. When you slept in a boat with the disciples, it was because you were tired and sleepy, period (Mark 4:38-40). You had friends because you were fully human and enjoyed their company. They weren’t projects; they were friends.
I’m particularly grateful today for friends too. You call us your friends, and you give us friends. Though you can meet us in our humanity, weariness, and downcast-seasons through ravens and rainbows, manna and miracles—more often than not you send us to each other. I love how Paul referred to his friend Titus: “His presence was a joy.”
Titus’ presence was a joy—not a pressure. Titus didn’t rebuke Paul for his weariness, merely try to cheer him up, or quote a bunch of Bible verses at him. Jesus, he was a spigot of your kindness in Paul’s dry-heart, tired-bones season. Because when you are close, “bruised reeds and smoldering wicks” feel no pressure to straighten up and stand tall or give off a glowing blaze like an ignited fire pit (Matt.12:15-21). Thank you, 10,000 times, over.
Jesus, thank you for our friends who extend your friendship and whose presence we consider a joy. Thank you for being a friend of sinners. Make us that kind of friend as well. It’s hard down here Jesus. Thank you for being with us and for us in so many ways. So Very Amen.