“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” - Romans 12:12
Is it over yet? No, not yet. The Mandatory Shelter in Place has only just begun and many people are experiencing the challenges of physical separation, emotional isolation, limited travel, and overall disruption of life as usual. Not to mention concerns over the far-reaching and long-lasting effects of this pandemic on the global economy, education, travel and entertainment, and the list goes on and on.
When Paul wrote these words to the Romans, he was calling the people of God to remember the many great and gracious promises of God in Scripture and to live in hope, patience, and prayer.
As God’s beloved children, created in God’s image and redeemed with the blood of Jesus, we live each day in the joyful assurance that our God is with us and will never leave us nor forsake us. Our sure hope is grounded in His grace and mercy in Christ and that sure hope brings us joy that transcends our present circumstances.
As God’s precious children, called, empowered, and sustained by His Holy Spirit, we remain patient in affliction, knowing that God is working in all things for His glory and our good. Neither height nor depth nor anything else in all creation can separate us from the love God has for us in Christ Jesus our Lord.
As God’s trusting children, we come to our heavenly Father in prayer, knowing that He hears our prayers for Jesus’ sake and loves to answer our prayers in just the right way and at just the right time according to His infinite wisdom and His good and gracious will. We remain faithful in prayer, knowing our Father is listening to our every prayer with love and grace in Christ.
Be joyful. Be patient. Be prayerful. The Lord is with you!
God’s peace,
Pastor Paul
Zion ~ We are here for you!