God of neverending love, be gracious to this dear reader in all that they may face today. In Christ Jesus' precious name, amen.
"Let love be genuine." Words from St. Paul from his letter to Romans. Do you think he encountered, in his many travels, folks who were not people of "genuine" love? If you guessed yes, you're right. In fact, most of the New Testament, if you think about it, are the writings of Paul responding to needs inside the Christian church. Most letters from him to churches address a situation or crisis that the Christian believers were either causing or experiencing. What would cause the 12th chapter of Romans to address the need for genuine love and the rest that follows? From verse 9 on: "...hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; 10 love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. 11 Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. 12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. 13 Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. 16 Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. 18 If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord." 20 No, "if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on their heads." 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."
Such special and basic instructions reflective of what Christ Himself taught. Remember the Lord's last commandment, "Love one another."
PRAYER: In Your house, dear God, we should be all about love. May it be so in my body, your "temple" today. May it be so in my house with all with whom I live. May it be so in my daily chores and obligations. Let people see Your love in me. I ask this in Jesus' Name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord.
Eradio Valverde
