The Praying Visitors

This is a lovely end to our time together.

2 Corinthians 13:1-14

Reference: v.14 May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. (TNIV Bible)

Explore: Having just moved, we’re gradually getting to know our neighbours. The ones that live east of our property were delighted to discover that we were also Christians.

They have been very friendly and popped over a number of times to say hello. (In some countries, it would seem weird for people living next to each other not to visit regularly, however, in Australia most people don’t even know their neighbours’ names.)

Even though we are at different stages of life, we always have plenty to talk about and we are able to help each other in different ways.

I’ve noticed that before they leave, they will always pray to conclude our conversation. This is a lovely end to our time together. We are able to bring everything we’ve spoken about before God and it really takes our relationship to a spiritual level.

Application: I don’t know if the Apostle Paul always prayed at the end of a visitation, but the conclusions to his letters were always beautiful salutations. When he finished his second letter to the Corinthians he asked for them to experience grace, love and closeness with God.

When I leave someone I usually wish them a good day. While that’s nice, I think I’d rather have the Lord’s grace, love and relationship!

The way we conclude letters, emails, text messages, and conversations is important. It actually flavours the next time we meet with them.

If we end badly then our next interaction starts with the same feelings. If we end with love and respect, then that is the same feeling we bring to our next chat.

Paul brought up some pretty deep topics with the Corinthians, but he ended with a blessing showing that he truly cared for them and wanted the best for them.

Prayer: Lord, may our conversations be flavoured with truth and honesty then end with love and respect.

How do you end your conversations?

2 Corinthians, conclusion, conversation, grace, love, neighbours, prayer