Romans 15:8-13
For I am saying that Christ became a servant of those who are circumcised for the sake of God’s truth, to confirm the promises made to the patriarchs. He also did this so that the Gentiles would glorify God for his mercy, as it is written: For this reason, I will praise you among the Gentiles, and I will sing to your name. And again, it says: Rejoice, you Gentiles, with his people. And again: Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and let all the peoples give him praise. And again, Isaiah says: There will be a Root of Jesse, and he is the one who will rise up to rule the Gentiles; on him, the Gentiles will place their hope. Now may the God of hope fill you with complete joy and peace as you continue to believe, so that you overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Dear Heavenly Father,
You sent your Son to be the servant of all, to fulfill the prophecies of the Old Testament. So that all people would have an opportunity to have life. Life came to all through the forgiveness of sins your Son won for us on the cross. He served all people by taking on our sin and shame, removing all the sins we have done. Our forgiveness is the reason for us to rejoice. Being trapped in our sins meant we would suffer an eternity separated from you. And you told us, Lord, that you would have all men to come to the knowledge of truth so they too would have life, and it is a shame every person who rejects the love of Christ for them he died in vain. He demonstrated his love by paying the price for their sins, so they would never have to feel the guilt of those things they have done. Even their sins were paid completely. This is why it is grace, undeserved love, because we do not deserve to be forgiven. So while we do not deserve joy, or happiness, or your love, and nothing in our sinful nature sets us up or makes us better so we can receive your forgiveness. It comes to all and is entirely by your grace. But, while forgiveness is a free gift, it does not give us a blank check to go out and do whatever we desire; that cheapens your love for us. Lord, you sent your Son for all people that we have the hope, joy, and peace that comes through the trust the Holy Spirit had begun in us. Faith receives this gift you have given to us through your Son. Please send your Spirit to crush all the sins that harden our hearts and give us vibrant hearts of faith as we anticipate the second coming of our Savior. Let us be prepared and ready, overflowing with love that comes through your Holy Spirit. Amen
Pastor Roger Emmons
Rejoice and praise God for the salvation he has brought you through his Son. Jesus came to serve all people with the forgiveness of sins.
