Thursday, 9 May, 2002

This is will be the last segment from Paul's Letter to the Romans. Friday I will start a new resource for the devotions.



We who are strong ought to put up with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Each of us must please our neighbor for the good purpose of building up the neighbor. For Christ did not please himself; but as it is written, "The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me." For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope. May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:1-6

Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. For I tell you that Christ has become a servant of the circumcised on behalf of the truth of God in order that he might confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written, "Therefore I will confess you among the Gentiles, and sing praises to your name"; and again he says, "Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people"; and again, "Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and let all the peoples praise him"; and again Isaiah says, "The root of Jesse shall come, the one who rises to rule the Gentiles; in him the Gentiles shall hope." May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:7-13



If we would do just this. Welcome one another - just as Christ has welcomed us...what a witness and what a life! To magnify this admonition, the welcome was not to be for insiders alone...but for the nations...all y'all. Today is the Ascension of our Lord and this passage fits well the vision of Christ, Jesus, lifted up to be Lord...of all...everywhere and in every time. No one is outside the reach of the welcoming love of our God as it is known in Christ Jesus. There are no conditions on the love. In fact, it is precisely this unbounded love that comes to life within the body of Christ that will be the most powerful witness we can ever offer. There is no need to "scare" people into believing when we need only embody Christ's welcome and love for us in order to have people see the powerful and graceful and eternal reign of the one who sits on the throne as eternal Lord of all. Through this Love of Jesus, people will be encouraged to praise the Lord Almighty.



Connection: Lord of all is a big title. It is a much bigger reality. Know that this Lord is with you and for you in the midst of anything that may come your way...from the biggest to the most insignificant events. This is also the Lord who moves us therefore, to seek out justice and peace for all...not just my own.



Lord of All, praise to you for your love that does not let any of your beloved go. Make us the community of Joy and Forgiveness and Love that reflects the wonder of your blessed reign. Amen