Today’s scripture: Romans 12:9-21 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Keith Phillips):
I’m not the kind of guy who makes New Years resolutions. I’m more of a this-is-the-first-day-of-the-rest-of-my-life sort of person. As one who has great appreciation for Twelve Step programs, I prefer to take it one day at a time. Maybe another way for me to look at New Years resolutions is to realize that each time I make a pledge to improve or a commitment to myself, to God, or to another, I’m beginning a new year whether it’s on January 1 or July 22.
In today’s scripture passage, at the end of his letter to the Roman Christians, Paul leaves his theology and presents the practical application of his teaching. There are about 30 different injunctions in this short passage, all of which remind me of Jesus’ teachings in the Sermon on the Mount. We are encouraged to live in mutual love, to honor others, to forsake revenge, to “rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer” (verse 12).
It’s an extraordinary little list; a tall order encouraging us to be, in effect, bold in our love for God, others, and self. It’s the Way of Christ, a journey in spiritual growth for us to take seriously day-by-day. And when taken seriously, there surely will be miraculous encounters along the way which will transform us from glory unto glory.
I find it intriguing that there is only one conditional clause among the 30 injunctions: “If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all” (verse 18). I can love another without him loving me back; I can show honor to another without her showing me any respect at all; I can choose to turn the other cheek multiple times because the slaps keep coming; but living peaceably requires more than just me. I can do my part, which the passage strongly advises; but when others refuse to live peaceably, there ain’t gonna be peace for any of us.
Also, it’s good to remember the context. Paul was writing to Christians living in Rome, most likely while Nero reigned. Although I live in the Kingdom of God present tense, I recognize that evil exists in this world; and with Jesus I stand against Rome, then and now, which only wants to dominate — economically, socially, militarily. In loving and in honoring and in not seeking revenge, I shall stand against those who abuse the poor and marginalized, who take advantage of the weak, and who desire more and more of our common resources for themselves.
Maybe that’s as good a resolution for me this year as any!
Thought for the day: Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace. Amen.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.