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,
Our sinful natures make us quite strange. We expect people to help us, but we don’t ask for help because we don’t want to impose on them or make it seem like we are helpless. Moreover, when others are in need, we expect them to ask us for help rather than react when we see them deal with their challenges. Our pride continues to get in the way.
Yet your Son came to serve us. He knows every weakness; before we can ask, he has already given himself for us all. Jesus brought everyone hope with the gift of forgiveness and salvation. This gift is for all who believe and trust in him. So we sing praises along with Paul because this gift is meant for everyone.
Let us overflow with the hope you have given us through your Holy Spirit. As we gush with our hope, let it be received by those who do not know or trust in you or your Son, Jesus. Let us share our gifts of forgiveness, salvation, and eternal life with those around us because Christ came to serve us all. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
God’s hope of salvation is for all people; his gift comes to you through faith in Jesus. Jesus became your servant by suffering and dying on the cross for all your sins; he has paid the eternal price for your salvation.