The Temporariness of Earthly Abilities and Disabilities

Read: 2 Corinthians 5:1-10

For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. (2 Cor. 5:1-3)

It has been observed that change is the only thing that’s constant in life. For those who get bored easily, this may be a comforting thought. For others, however, the thought that the abilities and activities that we currently enjoy are ultimately temporary creates  fear and discouragement. And for those who, because of aging, illness or injury, are actually in the process of losing abilities that they had once had, the prospect of further losses of independence and dignity may seem utterly unbearable.

But, in today’s Scripture reading, we see the Apostle Paul, not lamenting change, but rather longing for it. Paul is not oblivious to the fact that he, like all human beings, must face the inevitable deterioration of his physical body. Thus, he writes: “we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked.” Like the rest of us, Paul knows what it is to groan under relentless physical deterioration. Yet, Paul maintains an eternal perspective which gives him hope in the midst of his groaning: “so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life” (v. 4).

Loving Heavenly Father,
In the midst of my groaning over my loss of abilities and the deterioration of my body, do not let me despair. Rather, grant me the grace to look forward to your promise that, as Your child, there’s coming a day when my very mortality will be swallowed up by life. May I start groaning expectantly.
Amen.