Can something be a favorite and challenging at the same time? I think so. Let me show you what I mean. One of my favorite but most challenging Scriptures is found in 2 Corinthians 5.

Favorite: It is hard to find a verse or passage more inspiring, more hope-giving, and more enriching than 5:17: “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” There is no other way to look at that Scripture than to see the new birth and the new life Jesus gives to all.

But there is more following that.

Challenge: “…who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.” I love that word-reconciliation. “Being made friends again.” A relationship gone awry patched up and put back together. Years ago I had a friend. He felt I didn’t believe or trust him in what he shared with me about the ministry of someone else. Guilty as charged. I chose to believe (what I found out to be) the lies of the other individual. Years later I went to that former friend and apologized, admitted I was wrong, and asked his forgiveness. It was granted and our friendship was restored. It has been years since I have seen him and I don’t even know where he lives now. (Pastors tend to move around some). But I know reconciliation took place.

That is what God wants for us all-a fractured relationship with Him to be mended. Jesus came to make that possible. The catch now, according to 2 Cor.5:19, is the message of reconciliation is left in my hands. I am/you are to take the message of Jesus and His death to others so they might be made friends with God.

Favorite and challenging: both in the same passage.

“Father, thank you that because of Jesus I am your friend. I have been reconciled with You. Help me to be an instrument in Your hand to show others that same reconciliation is available for them.”