June 28

An Autograph Letter

It is clear that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts. — 2 Cor 3:3 BSB

The Apostle Paul’s life was often wearied by the constant opposition of his enemies and critics, who sowed discord in the churches he had founded throughout Europe. Some even came to Corinth, challenging him to produce letters of commendation from the Church leaders. With justifiable indignation, Paul exclaimed, “Why should I need letters of recommendation when my converts, given to me by the Lord, are themselves living testimonies, bearing Christ’s signature?” Surely, they were sufficient proof that Paul was commissioned and sent by the Lord Himself.

Paul offers a vivid and striking description of a Christian disciple: we are like living letters, written by Christ Himself. The Lord is the Author, and the ink is “the Spirit of the Living God.” The preacher or teacher of the Gospel is the pen used to write this letter, and the material is not stone tablets but human hearts—“hearts of flesh.”

We are meant to be Christians in large print, so that people don’t need to spend much time in our company or use magnifying glasses to discern our true discipleship. Our lives should be like giant advertisements that everyone passing by can read. The best letters are clear and concise, communicating their message effectively. Let’s ensure that the message of our lives is straightforward and unmistakable.

We are to be instruments in Christ’s hands—our sufficiency comes from God, who makes us ministers. Just as Milton, though blind, dictated his immortal words to a scribe, we too must yield ourselves as instruments to inscribe Christ’s message on the hearts and lives of others. If some are used more than others, it is because they are better prepared for His use (2 Timothy 2:15-21).

Prayer

Live in us, blessed Lord, through Your Holy Spirit, that our lives may be living letters of help and blessing to others. May the Name of the Lord Jesus be glorified in us. Amen.