Today is January 17th.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from the first letter to the Corinthians, chapter 1.


For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.” Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. Jews demand signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.


Do you ever feel foolish as a believer among your family, your colleagues, your friends? What does that do to you? Does it make you introverted with your faith? Afraid, embarrassed? Or, do you feel more courageous because of the foolishness you feel?

The Apostle Paul tells us that feeling foolish is not only something that followers of Christ have always felt, but it is the chosen means for the Gospel to go forward. The message of the cross, God’s salvation, is not on par with human wisdom. It’s not something that brilliant minds have produced. Because of that, it is seen as foreign, as weak, as foolishness. It is by nature humbling. But it is also the power of God to save. As you hear the passage again, thank God for revealing to you this message of salvation.

As we close our time, ask God to give you courage to be a fool for Christ, and look for an opportunity to live your faith out loud as you move through your day.

Lord God, Almighty and everlasting Father, you have brought me in safety to this new day: Preserve me with your mighty power, that I may not fall into sin, nor be overcome by adversity; and in all I do, direct me to the fulfilling of your purpose; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Music: Saved - Vineyard Worship/Samuel Lane - (YouTube)