Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. Romans 12: 9-13
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do no claim to be wiser than you are. Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceabley with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I repay says the Lord." No, "if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them soemthing to drink; for by doint this you will heap burning coals on their heads." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. Romans 12:14-21
Imagine a church that was more concerned with the life displayed in these two texts. I was at a conference with clergy this week and there was some attempt to listen and discuss the issue of homosexuality in the church. Over the years, I find that we will do almost anything to avoid being the chruch as it is described in these texts. Rather than talk about who or who is not allowed into the full ministry and mission of a congregation, what if we seriously held up to one another what Paul writes here. I think we would be a much more dynamic and alternative community in the midst of our world. I can honestly say, I am more prayerfully concerned about the absence and presence of this genuine loving life than I am about posting myself as a gatekeeper at the doors of the church to what out for any of "them." Above, we have a vision of what the Christ of God brings into our lives...and then invites us to live...and in that invitation there is a promise about a life that is eternal...beginning already. This text may take a revisit.
Connection: We can only imagine what life would be like in the middle of Paul's vision. It is alright and it is indeed blessed if we go ahead and live with imagination today.
Prince of Peace you breath upon us the Spirit of new life and you invite us to follow in the ways of your Son. Bless us this day that we will turn each corner renewed by your love for us and sent out to engage the world with lives shaped by your grace and love. Amen.
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