Confidence in Christ

By Jonathan Robichaud
Readings for March 18, 2024: Reflecting on the Fifth Sunday in Lent

Ever find yourself second-guessing or unsure about a task at hand? I'll be honest; I grapple with this. In 2 Corinthians, Paul showcases confidence not just in his abilities but also in Christ toward God. He clarifies that the competence for ministry isn't solely his doing but stems from God, emphasizing the transformative impact of the new covenant through the Holy Spirit. There's much to unpack here, but let me break it down.

Now, if we dive into communications, a field I see as a ministry, especially at St. Stephen’s, I can genuinely say that what I do is rooted in God. Reading this passage made me realize that turning to God is the key in moments of self-doubt about my abilities. While my colleagues at St. Stephen’s offer immense support, there's something compelling about stepping back from a task and having a conversation with God. Trusting in His plan becomes the anchor, empowering me to tackle even the most challenging obstacles. It's a process that takes time to integrate, and looking back, I almost feel remiss for not seeking His guidance sooner during moments of self-doubt.

In conclusion, reflecting on today's Lent Devotional and the theme of confidence in Christ, I resonate with the struggles of self-doubt and lack of confidence in tasks. Like Paul in 2 Corinthians, I acknowledge the importance of placing confidence not in my abilities alone but in Christ toward God. Recognizing that competence for ministry comes from God, primarily through the transformative nature of the new covenant and the Holy Spirit, is a powerful revelation.