Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them. Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all! Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. – Romans 12:9-18 (NLT)
Our world, our communities, our families and friends as well as the strangers who we are yet to encounter are all being impacted by so many destructive forces taking place in our world.
Recently I preached a sermon where I referenced a conversation with someone who stated that they were “at their wits end” because of all the heavy things taking place in their life and throughout the world. And lately I’ve been feeling that same tension and I’m guessing many of you are too. In my search for how to make sense of and navigate all the chaotic things that are happening I turned to the only place I know to find unfailing guidance – Scripture. And this particular passage from Romans seems to be a guiding light in the midst of all the darkness.
So, every morning I’ve been meditating on this passage as a reminder of how God calls me to be in the world each day. I pray that you would find comfort in taking time to read and reflect on these holy words and allow them to dwell deeply in your heart. Then, I invite you to consider how God might be speaking to you through this passage? And as you choose to live out these words how might the Holy Spirit be guiding you toward a blessing for your life and the world?
Pastor Tony
