October 22, 2003
But we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be made visible in our bodies. For while we live, we are always being given up to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus may be made visible in our mortal flesh. So death is at work in us, but life in you. But just as we have the same spirit of faith that is in accordance with scripture –”I believed, and so I spoke”– we also believe, and so we speak, because we know that the one who raised The Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus, and will bring us with you into his presence. Yes, everything is for your sake, so that grace, as it extends to more and more people, may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God. (NRSV)
2 Corinthians 4:7–15

St. Paul speaks passionately about the sacrifices endured now for the sake of those coming along. Those who give of themselves are bridge-builders, enabling others to pass in safety and to travel farther.

In May 1914, as the glorious new buildings of Fourth Presbyterian Church were completed, a worship service was held, a service entitled “Dedication of the Church Buildings to the Service of Mankind.” Our forebears of faith here believed that their giving of energy and resources would have significant future impact.

The chairman of the Building Committee used these words: “Whether the large expenditure which has been made here, whether all the skill and labor that have been expended on these structures shall prove to have been justified, time alone can answer. And the answer, when it comes, will be in the terms of service, the lives that shall be lived here, the spirit that shall go out from here and enter into the life of the community.”

From Paul onwards, each generation of the Christian community has its hour to share in the building of Christ’s kingdom. May we, as they, be found faithful in our time.

O God, who calls us through Christ into lives of service, inspire and strengthen our resolve to be found faithful to your purposes for human good--in our time, in our place. Amen.
Written by Thomas C. Rook, Parish Associate