Romans 15:1-6 (NRSV)
Read Romans 15:1-6 on biblegateway.com
Chapter 15We who are strong ought to put up with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Verse 2Each of us must please our neighbor for the good purpose of building up the neighbor. Verse 3For Christ did not please himself; but, as it is written, "The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me." Verse 4For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope.
Verse 5May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, Verse 6so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Devotion
Why should I work for the good of my neighbor over my own well-being? Because that’s what Jesus did in suffering the consequences of a world utterly resistant to God. But how on earth can I muster anything close to the magnificent generosity and forbearance Jesus displayed? That’s why Romans 15:5 matters, where Paul implores God to grant people the ability “to live in harmony with one another.” Paul can command, encourage and threaten his readers all he likes, yet finally he knows that Jesus and his grace can become manifest among us—not through our own moral exertion, but only when God moves among us to make it happen.
Prayer
God of encouragement, our Advent songs ask for peace and harmony, but our selfish lives produce a cacophonous racket. Let this Advent be for us a season of building up our neighbors. Amen.