In this final chapter of Romans, a book rich in theology and advice for practical Christian living, we see the pastoral side of Paul. His love for the people written about is evident. I have a tendency to view Paul as more of a theologian and less of a pastor but here they are not mutually exclusive. Here Paul seems more emotional than intellectual. These are people that he knows and cares about. People he wants to finish the race well. He doesn't want conflict to take away from the mission. He wants them to never forget the goodness of God. He knows how easily conflict can seep into churches and distract people from the ministry of reconciliation, He knows how easily people can be deceived. He knows how easily people can forget the goodness of God.
We're just as forgetful, aren't we? We can benefit from the same counsel today. I know I can be easily distracted and let unforgiveness turn into bitterness and conflict with my brothers and sisters in Christ. I can so easily forget how much I have been forgiven and not offer than same forgiveness to others.
Who can you encourage today? Who do you need to forgive or ask forgiveness of at Red Door? What distractions have kept you from consistently living out God's mission?
.JPG)
No comments:
Post a Comment