Loving God, share a message of hope and comfort to this dear reader in all that she or he faces today; in Jesus' Name, amen!
Here is today's text from Romans 10:10-21:
10 For one believes with the heart and so is justified, and one confesses with the mouth and so is saved. 11 The scripture says, "No one who believes in him will be put to shame." 12 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. 13 For, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved." 14 But how are they to call on one in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone to proclaim him? 15 And how are they to proclaim him unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" 16 But not all have obeyed the good news; for Isai'ah says, "Lord, who has believed our message?" 17 So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the word of Christ. 18 But I ask, have they not heard? Indeed they have; for "Their voice has gone out to all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world." 19 Again I ask, did Israel not understand? First Moses says, "I will make you jealous of those who are not a nation; with a foolish nation I will make you angry." 20 Then Isai'ah is so bold as to say, "I have been found by those who did not seek me; I have shown myself to those who did not ask for me." 21 But of Israel he says, "All day long I have held out my hands to a disobedient and contrary people."
Paul is quoting from the prophet Isaiah in verse 11, which is our key verse today: "The scripture says, 'No one who believe in Him will be put to shame.'" As Paul continues to fret over the lost nation of Israel, he is seeking answers in God's word. Paul knew the scriptures for he was a Pharisee, and as a Pharisee, he knew that in God's word we can find that which comforts and gives hope. Paul knew that the Word also said, v. 13, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved," but also knows others were wondering, "How will they know to call upon the Lord?" Paul is confident that God's word has been and will be preached to all corners of the world so that they may come to believe in God.
In the same way, could today be the day when one of our lost loved ones comes to the saving knowledge of God? Could their days of long separation from God come to an end today in that they come to say, "God, I've been wandering off long enough, come into my life today and make me yours."? It might possibly be, but it will require our prayers and asking of God, for His will to be done. No one wants to be separated from those that they love and in the same way, God does not want to be separated from any of us. As our key verse for today said, we will not be disappointed because of our faith in God.
PRAYER: Loving God, into Your loving care and hands I place those whom I've named in my heart as needing You. If it be Your will help them know again and again of Your love for them and the desire You have to have them in relationship with You. May they come to know You like never before. I ask this in Christ Jesus' precious name, amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
Eradio Valverde
PS Prayer Request for the family of Ralph Salinas. Ralph's sister died not too long ago of a stroke while caring for their mom; this past weekend, their mom died. This morning is her funeral and we ask you lift Ralph up in prayer during this sad time for him and all of his loved ones.
