Reading: Romans 1:1-7

Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God, which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy scriptures, the gospel concerning his Son, who was descended from David according to the flesh and was declared to be Son of God with power according to the spirit of holiness by resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord, through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith among all the Gentiles for the sake of his name, including yourselves who are called to belong to Jesus Christ, To all God’s beloved in Rome, who are called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Reflection

Paul starts out his letter to the Romans with special words and one big, long sentence. In the beginning he describes himself: servant, called and set apart. In the middle he explains the Son descended from David declared to be Son of God – Jesus Christ our Lord. By the end he proclaims that through Jesus all received grace and are called saints. Grace and peace to all. Gods’ love from Paul to all.

Me to you. Simple words and many short sentences of who I am. Ruth – servant, apostle and set apart. Serving, learning and unique being both called to be a saint yet a sinner receiving grace. Love God. Love others. Love all.

You to all. Your words; your way. Knowing you belong to Jesus Christ and are beloved by God. Let’s share God’s grace and peace to all.

—Ruth Gates

Prayer

Dear God, may we like Paul, share who we are and who you are to all and for all. Thank you for your grace and peace.

Amen.