In a previous post, we wrote about God’s definition of “covering” as His covenantal promise to never use His superior strength against us. Now, we look at the other side of that same coin: i.e. God’s covenantal promise to never use our weakness against us.
In any relationship where there is an expectation of intimacy (into-me-see) and transparency, trust is paramount. Consider Samson, who naively allowed Delilah to “see into” him. Discovering his weakness – his hair – she participated in an enemy plot to shave Samson’s head. This eventually led to his demise.
Married couples can experience this same phenomena. After a day battling in the world, they come home seeking safe haven, remove their hard, heavy “armor,” and don soft, light “tunics” which leaves them wide open and vulnerable. Any attack, even if it’s merely a verbal one, can be devastating and cause irreparable damage. Our need for intimacy with one another can be used against us, and in the hands of someone who is not trustworthy, it can set the stage for hurt, manipulation, and control.
In the garden, after eating of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, Adam and Eve knew they were literally and figuratively exposed and quickly donned fig leaves to hide themselves. Of course, God knew everything that had transpired and was not the least bit surprised at their actions. But instead of using their weakness against them, He provided more substantial clothing so they could better survive the consequences of their choices. And, He set into motion the plan to restore them into full “pre-fall” relationship with Him.
Little did they realize that God’s intention was never to harm them. Rather His restorative plan was to reveal Himself, through His son, even more intimately and vulnerably to His creation. Jesus spent His entire earthly ministry advancing the truth about His Father; i.e. How much He loves His creation and that He loves and forgives, unconditionally.
Jesus also revealed the truth about our human condition; that we have freedom to choose or reject God, just as Adam and Eve did in the Garden. Also that through free will, given as a gift from God when we were created, we can decide to live independent from God, and end up hurting each other and defiling God’s creation.
But Jesus came to show us a more excellent way; that an intimate relationship with Him and dependence on God the Father results in true freedom and abundant life.
Jesus also came to show us that we can trust God. That He is true to His promises. That God is for us and never against us. That we can show our weaknesses before God and He will cover us.
This is what Paul meant in 2 Corinthians 12:9 when he said God’s grace – unmerited favor – was sufficient for him.
Because God is for us, we can provide others with “sacred spaces” where their weakness will not be used against them; a place where God will cover them and healing and wholeness can happen.
Catholic Apostolic Group 
Amen!
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