February 19 | Romans 15:1-7

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DAILY READING

Romans 15:1-7

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REFLECTION

One Anothering In Action

By Judy Webb

We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.  Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. (Romans 15:1-2)

In a world that is becoming unloving and even violent, let the words of Romans 15 move us to acknowledge just how meaningful and beautiful are the words found in our texts today. Ask the Holy Spirit to open all hearts to the message.

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These verses are a great devotion in themselves. As we read the words and consider our own lives let us draw a parallel.  We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. (v.1) The Believers Bible Commentary instructs: Live to please your neighbor, to do him good, to build him up. This is the Christian approach. While much of this text probably refers to spiritual matters, I am currently understanding this to also refer to helping those less physically strong.

Case in point: I have a remarkable neighbor who seems to be watching out for me. He says he is not a Christian, but his actions speak volumes. He always spreads salt on the sidewalks on those icy mornings; he lets me know when there is a dog food package at the door and offers to bring it inside for me. He sees my physical weakness and is always there to help. We have become friends despite our age difference. This is what I pondered as I read verses 1 and 2.

Another neighbor, who unselfishly walked my dog while I was recovering from knee surgery, is beginning to struggle with her memory. She knows I am a praying person, so she tells me about it and asks me to pray. I do this, knowing the importance of prayer to all of us, especially in our weaknesses. Sometimes our weaknesses are an embarrassment, but because she doesn't hide hers from me, I can come alongside her. We all have our own weaknesses. Some are obvious and others not so much.

This brings us to verse 7:"Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God." My neighbors accept me and I am learning to accept them, and often learn from their care and concern. I do not consider myself one who goes out of the way to help, but the example of these kind neighbors is beginning to rub off on me. Don't you love it when God's plan and His Word come together like this?

PRAYER

Dear Lord, Verses 5 and 6 are perfect ways to pray as we end this time together. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JUDY WEBB

I have been a member of UALC for 26 years and have been writing devotions for this site for about 17 of them. Writing is my passion. As retired staff I still love everything about UALC and its members including my small group.