Our scripture this morning is Romans 1:2-6.
God promised this Good News long ago through his prophets in the holy Scriptures. The Good News is about his Son. In his earthly life he was born into King David’s family line, and he was shown to be the Son of God when he was raised from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit. He is Jesus Christ our Lord. Through Christ, God has given us the privilege and authority as apostles to tell Gentiles everywhere what God has done for them, so that they will believe and obey him, bringing glory to his name. And you are included among those Gentiles who have been called to belong to Jesus Christ.
Paul opens his Letter to the Romans with the point of his ministry, “the Good News is about his Son” (v. 3), sharing that Jesus came to save us. He speaks about his call from God to tell people “what God has done for them” (v. 5). We are called in the same way to share the Good News with everyone.
He testifies to Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, explaining that God has done this so that we “will believe and obey him, bringing glory to his name.” He closes this passage with the promise from God that we are included in His blessing. While those in Rome may have heard about Jesus through rumor or gossip, this is likely the first honest witness to His love they have received.
Paul was willing to risk censure, physical punishment and imprisonment to accomplish what Jesus had called him to do. While we may not face the same perils, our call is the same – to share the love of Christ with the world. God gives us the gifts and the opportunity to be His representatives, telling everyone that through our faith in Him, we can all be saved.
Loving Lord, we are amazed at the depth of Your care for us. Help us to be the bearers of the Good News to all Your children. Amen.