Words of Grace for January 6

Romans 1:1-2 Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God 2 which He promised before through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures


There are many things that we spend our time on these days. Many things that we find important. I, myself, am a big fan of sports. I love college football and basketball. I am a huge Washington Redskins fan, as well. I found a few years ago that sports could easily consume my life. For example, on Sunday, there was a football game at 1:00, 4:00, and 8:00. On Monday night, there was a game starting at 9:00. Then, during college season, there was a Thursday night game and at least two games on Saturday. I would watch most of these games. If you add all that time up, I was watching 21 hours of football per week. To spend that much time on something must mean that it is a matter of life and death.

But, obviously, football is not that important. In fact, on a scale of 1-10, it’s not even worth considering. Especially when compared to the gospel, to which God has separated me. In the grand scheme of things, nothing matters as much as the gospel. It is the gospel, which according to Paul, is the power of God unto salvation. It is the gospel which provides forgiveness and cleansing from sin. It is the gospel which brings peace with God and peace with other people. It is the gospel which provides comfort during the struggles of each day. And it is the gospel which brings purpose and meaning to each of our lives.

It is this gospel to which we have been separated. Jesus, the eternal Son of God, came to earth to die for you and for me. His shed blood cleanses us from all unrighteousness. Those who repent and believe need never fear death or the wrath of God, because they are now His children. If you know Christ, you are now part of His family and commissioned to proclaim the good news of God’s reconciliation to men. Enjoy what Christ has done for you. Make it the focal point of this day as you rejoice in the gospel that God loves you and is working all things out for your good.

FOR FURTHER STUDY

1. Read Acts 22:1-5; Acts 26:1-5 and Philippians 3:4-6. What do these passages say about Paul (Saul)? (NOTE TO PARENTS: have children read the passages or listen for specific descriptions about Paul)

2. According to Romans 1:1, what made Paul a different man?

3. If you want your life to be different, what must take place?

Children’s Catechism Question
Q - Who made you?
A - God made me.

Adult Catechism Question
Q - Who is the first and best of beings?
A - God is the first and best of beings.

Hymn
Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise