Romans 14:17-19: Righteousness, Peace and Joy
Thursday, March 14, 2024
We worry about what we are to wear, where we are to go, how we are to act. Jesus reminds us that these are not the concerns of one who rests beside the cornerstone. Righteousness, peace and joy. These are the concerns of those who unite in kingdom building.
For the kingdom of God is not food and drink but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. (NRSV)
The cares of the world are not the cares of God’s kingdom. Those on the margin, the abandoned, the abused, and the neglected, these are the citizens who populate Christ’s kingdom.
The one who thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and has human approval. (NRSV)
Healing, consolation, solace and generosity. These are the transformative gifts we receive from the Holy Spirit.
Let us then pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding. (NRSV)
Righteousness, peace and joy. Harmony, reconciliation and delight. How do we serve God’s justice in our world? How do we follow Christ in reunion? How do we share gladness in the Spirit of the LORD?
When we use the scripture link and drop-down menus to explore these verses, we take the opportunity to examine our own lives.
Images from: http://christianity.about.com/od/glossary/a/Righteousness.htm and https://www.simplymadehealth.com/blogs/joy-like-a-child
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