Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Repent and Return

Romans 15:1-9

“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had,  so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” ( 5-6)
 “A Christian is the most free lord of all, and subject to none; a Christian is the most dutiful servant of all, and subject to everyone.” This statement of Martin Luther talks about our liberty in Christ, while at the same time, reminding us of our responsibility to fellow believers.  In Romans Chapter 14, Paul discusses in detail the issue among the believers in exercising their Christian liberty in the areas of dietary laws and observance of days. Many times, we as the body of Christ forget our primary responsibilities and focus on nonessential matters: causing divisions, passing judgment on others and despising the fellow believers.  In our text for meditation today Apostle Paul is calling believers to return to the original purpose of God for which they are called for.
Called to support each other: Christian faith is not self-centered, but it is meant to allow everybody to grow in Christ together. Paul encouraged the “strong” believers not to please only themselves while exercising their Christian liberty, but to consider the believers who are “weak” and to bear with their scruples, strengthening them and building them up in faith.  Paul is pointing us to Christ who gave up His own interests, but took our reproaches on Him for our sake and to follow His example in our fellowship with others.
Called to glorify God in unity:   The divisions among the believers, as we see today, limit their God given purpose to be a blessing for others and glorify His name.  Paul reminds believers everywhere to build up themselves in the Word of God in endurance and encouragement, leading them to have the mind of Christ. This will enable us to accept others just as Christ accepted us bringing unity among the believers and bring Glory to God in all we do.
In a world where living a self-centered life is considered a mode of survival, we are called to support each other, build each other and to sacrifice our own interests for the sake of others. Let the world see the Glory of God through our life reflecting Christ in us. As it was once said   “Preach the gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.”
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for the ultimate sacrifice on the cross to redeem us. Help us to follow your example in our daily lives, encouraging and supporting others to bring glory to your name.
Thought of the day: Willingness to lose our interests may gain others for Christ. 


Abey Cherian, St. Thomas MTC, NY

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