Our scripture this morning is Romans 8:15-19.
So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father.” For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children. And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering. Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later. For all creation is waiting eagerly for that future day when God will reveal who his children really are.
Jesus told His disciples “John baptized with water, but in just a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 1:5). Paul reminds us that this wonderful gift is given to all of us who claim Jesus as our savior. The Holy Spirit enables us to go in His name to share the Gospel with the world.
If we want to follow Jesus and spread His love to everyone, we must be ready to share His suffering as well. Worldly people seem to only care about themselves; we are called to care for everyone and work against the sinful selfishness of the world. Jesus said it would be difficult and there would be opposition, but we must continue in faith.
As God’s children we are blessed to be part of His plan for salvation. Jesus came as one of us to show us the way. Now it is our task to continue the loving work He began, bringing the Good News to everyone.
Gracious God, we are humbled that You chose us to be part of the redemption of humanity. Help us to live as You intend, caring for the needs of others and sharing the love of Jesus with all. Amen.