DAILY READING
REFLECTION
Don't Be Afraid to Share the Gift of God's Love
By Michael Guastella
The opening chapters of Romans paint a beautiful picture that explores the depths of God's love, justice, and plan for humanity. Paul explores the real impact of sin, the wrath of God against unrighteousness, and the promise of God's righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ.
In the opening verses of his letter to the Roman believers, Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, expresses his heartfelt gratitude and unwavering prayer for them. He acknowledges their faith, which has spread throughout the world, and longs to visit them to impart spiritual blessings.
Paul's introduction reveals his deep affection for the Roman church and his deep desire to strengthen their faith. His prayer highlights his commitment to their spiritual well-being and his eagerness to share the transformative power of the gospel with them personally.
This passage invites us to reflect on our own faith and how we can share it with others. Like Paul, we should be grateful for the gift of faith and pray for the spiritual growth of those around us. We should also be willing to share our faith with others, whether through words or actions, and to offer them the same love and support that Paul offered to the Roman believers.
As we read this passage, we are reminded of the importance of community and fellowship in our Christian walk. We are called to be part of a community of believers who support and encourage one another. We should also be intentional about reaching out to those who do not yet know Christ and sharing the good news of salvation with them.
The opening verses of Romans are a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, prayer, and community. It encourages us to be grateful for the gift of faith, to pray for the spiritual growth of others in our lives, and to share our faith with those around us. By doing so, the love of Christ is spread throughout each of our worlds, and the Holy Spirit, through the love that Christ shares with us, makes a difference in our world one person at a time.
PRAYER
Our Lord, Our Creator, Our Ruler, and Our Savior....where we lack the courage, give it to us. Where we lack the strength, let us only turn to you. Grant us the humility and grace to share your Love with our friends, our coworkers, all of Your Creation around us. Let your love flow through us not only unabashedly, but with the confidence that only a promise from you can bring. Thank you for the chance you give us every day to affirm our devotion to you, and thank you for always giving us another chance when we fall short. May we only ever get closer to you, Jesus. Amen.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
MICHAEL GUASTELLA
I have been a Hilliard resident since late 2022 and a UALC regular attendee since 2024. I am from the Cleveland area, where I attended Parkside Church as a boy under the teachings of Allistair Begg and was baptized at 16 years old. It is a joy and honor to serve UALC.
Welcome to UALC and Central Ohio. Thank you for the message today. I grew up in Parma & Lakewood and I appreciate the milder weather here, as I am sure you do.
Again, thanks.
What beautiful words to read this morning. And a great reminder of our purpose as Believers to share God's word and encourage others. Thank you, Michael.
Very good devotional, Michael.