Our scripture this morning is Romans 12:10-13.
Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Paul’s Letter to the Romans was written to Jewish and Gentile believers with the hope that they would put aside their historical and cultural differences and pursue faith in Christ together. This epistle is often considered a summary of Christian theology due to its wide range of instruction and its constant focus on Jesus as the only source of salvation. In this passage Paul encourages them to “honor one another above yourselves”, an admonition we must follow if we are to obey the commandments Jesus gave us.
Paul writes that our love for those in the family of believers is good and essential, but that we must also show the same love for those outside the faith, that they too may know the love of God. Jesus taught us “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them!” (Luke 6:32). By being “joyful in hope, patient in affliction and faithful in prayer” we can share God’s message with the world.
We read “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” Who are the Lord’s people? Everyone! God made us all in His image and He loves us all. Our task is to love as He does, sharing His blessings and spreading the Good News.
Gracious God, in Your mercy You sent Your son to save us. Help us to follow where He leads us, reaching out in love to all Your children. Amen.
