Knowing What Matters

Living in the Spirit
August 10, 2017

Scripture Reading: Romans 10:5-15

because if you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For one believes with the heart and so is justified, and one confesses with the mouth and so is saved. The scripture says, ‘No one who believes in him will be put to shame.’ For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and is generous to all who call on him. For, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.’ –Romans 10:9-13

When I was a child, we had a massive blow up at my little hometown church over whether the new chairs at the communion table should be upholstered or not. Christians get all bent out of shape over many things about which Jesus never even spoke. I cannot help but think that if Jesus thought something was important, he shared it.  Paul tells us in our scripture today accepting Jesus as Lord of our lives is what matters. Such acceptance is not just an intellectual act; it is a life transforming process that helps us get our priorities straight and gain productive focus for our lives. Jesus got impatient with religious leaders who argued over what Jesus probably considered trivia.

He did advise us that his way is not burdensome as some like to make it. Matthew 11:28-30, Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.’ He also told us not to worry about judging other people; he would take care of that. John 5:22, The Father judges no one but has given all judgment to the Son.

We need to hear carefully and understand Paul’s words, the same Lord is Lord of all and is generous to all who call on him. For, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. All to Jesus meant everyone. He seemed to have a special place in his heart for those we denigrate. There is a lesson in his role modeling.

Prayer: Lord, forgive us when we see others through the eyes of the world and fail to see your image in each of them. Help us lighten burdens, not heap on more. Amen.

All scriptures are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version Bible: Anglicized Edition, copyright 1989, 1995, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights are reserved.