07/04/2023 Daily Devotion – ‘I resolved to know nothing’ but…

“For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.” (1 Corinthians 2:2 NIV84)

I had not anticipated how emotional this devotion might be for me. This is the second verse (the first was John 3:16) that I memorized nearly 30 years ago. I wanted this verse to be the missional verse for my life and ministry. I wanted those I came into contact with to see Jesus and not Tom Donnelly. I wanted everyone I ever met to somehow come into contact with Jesus’ crucifixion. Thirty years later, I don’t know whether those around me have gotten to see Jesus, or whether I have gotten in the way. But one thing I can assure you, over the last 30 years I never would have guessed how many times I would have to crawl back to the cross of Jesus to find air to breathe, to find light to see by, and to receive a most needed forgiveness that was more and more undeserved each time I came crawling. In my 50s, I can tell you why this was the second verse I memorized in my life — because God knew how much I would need the cross in my life.

If you know me, you know I’m up for any good philosophical debate and theological argument. But at the end of the day, or the end of life, all such debates would be meaningless if Christ crucified were not in the center of each moment. I pray, with tears, that this verse not only be my verse, but also your life’s missional verse.

Peace!

Pastor Tom

About the author: Tom Donnelly