Yet again we see that the early Church was as troubled as our own experience in this modern age. St Paul classifies himself as a "fool" as he is boasting about his own deeds. He is in argument with others who have put themselves forward to act as Apostles and he is asserting that he has experienced much more tribulations than they who have justified their false claims by reference to their suffering. "I have done much more for the Church than you" is a familiar claim in parish disputes and it is still foolish today. St Paul's list of sufferings is nothing but impressive; he claims to be feeble but this is certainly over the top humility, 

In today's Gospel Jesus gives us hope that it is possible for us to have "heavenly treasure" and the eye is seen as the  organ of right judgement as it brings light to hearts. "What a darkness that will be" is comment from God on the futility of everything that is not seen in  His light. We are to open our eyes to the pure illumination that comes from God; the salvation that is ours though the sufferings of Jesus and the Gifts of the Holy Spirit are all here for us to see in the light  of our Creator.

Dear Lord  how much greater must St Paul's anxiety for the state of your Church be in these days. All is in your hands, we are truly feeble let your will for only Good things blind us to evil so that we can know the Love that comes from you.