January 21, 2019
Romans 12:9-21 The Message (MSG)
In our passage today, the Apostle Paul gives us a glimpse of how to love others authentically with the love of God. Our love is not to contain judgment; we have no right to judge another person. Our greatest task and responsibility is actually to examine ourselves and judge our love walk as we encounter others. Christ calls us to model his love and use that love to honor others who may not realize they have been made in God’s image. Chances are in their ignorance they will need forgiveness; we certainly needed God’s forgiveness. By reflecting Christ, we are passing the healing grace of God on to those around us. We have received from the mercy and grace of God, so let’s turn and be givers of healing grace.
Romans 12:9-21
9-10 Love from the center of who you are; don’t fake it. Run for dear life from evil; hold on for dear life to good. Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle.
11-13 Don’t burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don’t quit in hard times; pray all the harder. Help needy Christians; be inventive in hospitality.
14-16 Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath. Laugh with your happy friends when they’re happy; share tears when they’re down. Get along with each other; don’t be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don’t be the great somebody.
17-19 Don’t hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you’ve got it in you, get along with everybody. Don’t insist on getting even; that’s not for you to do. “I’ll do the judging,” says God. “I’ll take care of it.”
20-21 Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he’s thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don’t let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good.
Prayer: Lord, help me to discover beauty in everyone. Holy Spirit, help me to be a giver of healing grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.