Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.” vss. 9, 12-13
Romans 12:9-15
Life in community is not complicated, and after showering the Romans with theological background, Paul outlines some basic principles for dealing with brothers and sisters in Christ and offers his readers guidance that has stood the test of time. Any congregation that is doing the things that he has listed will likely be vibrant and flourishing in every part of its ministry. In our troubled and conflicted times, it’s particularly important for us to rejoice in hope, and offer blessings instead of curses when division threatens. And we can’t forget to cling to one another in our suffering, offering daily prayers for all those feeling pain and loss in their lives. The reminder that we are not alone when our lives seem to be falling apart is of inestimable value. It’s precisely at this point that we are bound together in love and can begin to believe that we really are the living, breathing Body of Christ in this world. When we are tempted to give up on the Church in the face of conflict and membership loss, what a blessing it is to be reminded that when our congregations are healthy, there’s still no better place for searchers to encounter the unconditional love of God.
Thought for the Day: How well do Paul’s words describe my congregation?
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