Click this link to hear an audio version of the below text narrated by SOTH member Jerry Rhinehart:
Romans 12:9-16
“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.”
In our reading today, and the one from yesterday, Paul (the author of the book of Romans) is concerned that people are haughty and conceited in their view of themselves. Though our lives may take us in many different directions, we are called to live at peace with one another and in service to each other. At the same time, I’d like you to notice that we are not to think of ourselves more lowly than we ought either. God has gifted you and called you to this community of faith. As we prepare to gather for worship this weekend, consider what God has called you to do at Shepherd of the Hills. What are your gifts? Who are you walking beside? Today, pray for our weekend worship. Pray that those who lead, have rest and joy in their leading. Pray that those who gather, see God more clearly. Pray that you will be “devoted to one another in love.” (Rom 12:10a)