“…But glory and honor and peace for everyone who does good…” Romans 2:10a

The other day, I was in the produce section at Cub Foods.  I believe I was buying for Easter and the menu was Pomegranate Salmon with Roasted Asparagus, Tomatoes and Garlic.  There was a kind-looking person at the asparagus display.  She had picked up a good-looking bunch, but did not have the plastic bag to place it in.  I on the other hand did have the plastic bag, but no asparagus.  (I love asparagus.)  So I held open my bag, she smiled, placed her asparagus in the bag and I gave it to her.    No big deal, it cost me nothing.  Yet, it was a little piece of grace that was motivated out of my desire to be a follower of Jesus Christ. 

Paul writes, “Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.”  (Romans 15:2).

How do we do, when we are at Cub or Menards, in the parking lot of Costco or Target, when we are moving to and from these places?  Are we acting with the grace and peace that has been given us? Or, are we in a mad hurry to get to the next thing, impatient whenever we have to wait in line, eye-rolling and exasperated breathing when we receive customer service that is less than?

Paul continues in verse 5, “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”  

The God of endurance, who has put up with a lot of frustrating behavior, encourages us to be a people of endurance who will probably have to put up with a lot of frustrating behavior.  The end result of which is a spiritual outcome.  The name of God is enhanced.  The reputation of Jesus is advanced.  The power of the Holy Spirit revealed in our lives because we have done something, perhaps small, that was motivated out of our identity in Christ.  

Last Sunday was splendid:  celebrating the resurrection together.  This Sunday is Communion Sunday; so as you enter the Worship Center, make certain to grab the necessary cup/bread couplet.  If you are at home, have your home kit at the ready.  Please take advantage of the Kids! Programming, and sign your child up for the 9 am service.  And if you might be willing, think about helping out in our Kids! or Hospitality or Greeting or Ushering service opportunities.  You can touch base with Amy Labarre who is our Community Life Director or contact the church office, and simply say, I want to help out!

Peace to you this day, I miss you,

John