“We are not withholding our affection from you, but you are withholding yours from us. As a fair exchange—I speak as to my children—open wide your hearts also.” (2 Corinthians 6 v 12-13)
Some people always like to be the victim in scenarios. The Corinthians church were one of these. Paul had to address their sinfulness and he did so firmly in the previous letter. Now it looks like they have withheld their love for him and the team and probably because they say they are hurt. What is more probably true, they are offended.
Paul calls them to be as open and honest as he was with them. For that is the only way to be reconciled. There are people hurt and offended today with someone who is completely unaware that they have been the one to make them feel this way.
Have we built walls instead of bridges?
Is there anyone we have withdrawn from, why?
We might need to overcome our hurts, disappointments and fears in order to love authentically.
Finally, notice how Paul addresses them as children. This speaks of Paul’s love to them being one of nurture and sacrifice. I heard yesterday how one father hasn’t had contact with his son for many years. They had fallen out a long time ago. Perhaps today there is someone, a parent, a child, a friend of years ago who you stopped loving, you gave up your affection for them. The Spirit calls you to open your heart again and show the same love that God shows you.
Missions Paul 