Balance, Supply, Need

2 Corinthians 8:8-15 New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition

I do not say this as a command, but I am, by mentioning the eagerness of others, testing the genuineness of your love. For you know the generous act of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich. And in this matter I am giving my opinion: it is beneficial for you who began last year not only to do something but even to desire to do something. Now finish doing it, so that your eagerness may be matched by completing it according to your means. For if the eagerness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what one does not have. For I do not mean that there should be relief for others and hardship for you, but it is a question of equality between your present abundance and their need, so that their abundance may also supply your need, in order that there may be equality. As it is written,
“The one who had much did not have too much,
and the one who had little did not have too little.”

Reflection

     I doubt that the daily lectionary planners picked this text on equality so that it would line up with the Autumnal Equinox. It seems more likely that it is pointing ahead to our Gospel text about income inequality. Balance. Even though I like more sunlight in the morning, I do appreciate balance. It sure is difficult to achieve and keep in many areas. Community and generosity seems to be the focus of Paul with the church in Corinth. As a busy trading city, they certainly had the means to share with others who were in need. What is interesting to me is the statement that "their abundance may also supply your need." I think this points to the reality that we all have different amounts of different things. All things related to faith can be seen in this way as capable of providing balance when shared.

Almighty God of all, we praise you for the balance you give to each day and season. We pray that you guide us to share with each other, so that all may know your intended equality. Bring us together into your balance of love and peace. Let those near to those in need realize the gifts that the needy share bringing both into balance. In your powerful Name, we pray. Amen.