Today’s
scripture: 2 Corinthians 6:11-13
I just spent several days with my sister’s family in Oregon. I had so much fun
with my three great-nephews. C.J. is seven, Joey is almost five, and little Danny
is two. They are so adorable … and that’s not just a proud great-aunt talking.
They really are adorable!
Sometimes when we read the Bible, and it deals with children, we often
interpret it to mean we’re to talk in simpler terms. I think these verses mean
something different. I think it means we’re to be open with one another,
speaking with affection and transparency, just as we do with children.
When I talk with my great-nephews, it’s true that I don’t use lofty words. I
certainly speak in terms they easily understand. Even more, however, I use
tones that clearly demonstrate my affection for them. My heart is “opened wide”
when I listen to them explain that very important something—whatever that
“something” might be.
This is how we should be with each other: open and affectionate. We should
demonstrate our love through active listening and careful—and caring—words.
As one commentary puts it, “I speak to you with the utmost freedom and fluency because of my affection for you. It is expanded to take
you and all your interests in; and to keep you in the most affectionate
remembrance” (The Adam Clarke Commentary).
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