Tuesday, June 20, 2023

Wednesday prior to Proper 7

 

Romans 6:12-23 – In these verses, Paul explains what it means to be dead to sin (vv. 5-7) and alive to God (vv. 8-10).  Our victory over sin is a refusal to let sin reign in one’s life (v. 12).  We do this as we offer ourselves to God Himself to be witnesses of His mercy and grace in this world. Hence the prayer for us to be mindful of our Christian vocation.

Christ is always there for you. Even in your darkest hours. Even when you feel like there is no help left. Put your trust in Him. And he will lift you in His arms.  Even in the midst of your darkest hours. Christ remains present.  You can even glory in you weakness. For when you are weak you are made strong by the power of Christ.  This change happens. Because of the sacramental effected change which has taken place in your baptism. You are not your own. You now belong to Christ. 

Delivered from sin and death, you now live before God in the righteousness of Christ.

Do not yield to the spirit of this age. Love the truth. What you learn of Christ in the closet speak in the light. What you hear in the Scriptures proclaim from the housetop. You need not fear the face of any man. You are in Christ. 

So trust in His timing. Rely on His promises. Wait for His answers. Believe in His miracles. Rejoice in His goodness. Relax in His presence. Come near to Jesus and He will come near to you.  James 4:8

If we take these words seriously, we have to come to this conclusion; your heavenly Father is completely fascinated with you. He’s taken the time to count the number of hair on your head. Who else would do something than that other then He who is in love with you!

A prayer for Christian vocation - Heavenly Father, grant Your mercy and grace to Your people in their many and various callings. Give them patience, and strengthen them in their Christian vocation of witness to the world and of service to their neighbor in Christ’s name; through Jesus Christ our Lord we pray, Amen.

Collect for Christian Vocation, Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis
Consider the Birds, they neither sow, copyright © Ed Riojas, Higher Things
 

 


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