November 14 – A Reflection of Grace (Romans 12:9-13)

“Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”(Romans 12:13)

IN WORD:
Our spiritual gospel has far-reaching, material implications. It commands us to focus on eternal realities rather than temporary provisions. It calls for an increasing detachment from the things that once gripped us. And one of the ways to cultivate such focus and detachment is by a radical and voluntary meeting of needs.
We are never given permission in the Bible to allow our material things to create division between our eternal brothers and sisters. And yet they do. Within the church are awkward class structures and rigid social strata. No, Jesus was not a socialist, and God’s Word does not compel us to seek absolute equity between all who believe. But it does command us to share. We who have much are to notice those who have little. The implication is not that we will grudgingly give when confronted; the New Testament context implies that we will seek opportunities to give.
Why is this such an imperative in Christian fellowship? Because our fellowship is meant to reflect Jesus’ kingdom. We are to be a taste of heaven on earth. We are to reflect God’s glory, and His glory is displayed when he meets our needs. That means our reflection will involve meeting the needs of others. The generous God calls us to be generous. The hospitable God who will welcome us into heaven with open arms, calls us to welcome others with the same spirit.

IN DEED:
Sometimes it is hard to see heaven on our earth. But the church is to make sure that the Kingdom of God is visible. It is our divine mission, given us by the One who called us to follow Him in every area of our lives. How did Jesus display heaven? He touched and healed, fed and watered, taught and cultivated, forgave and poured out His life. His followers can do no less, if we are in fact to be His followers. Share on earth as you will share in heaven. Let the hospitality of heaven define your hospitality here. Let His Kingdom be demonstrated in you.

“A cheerful giver does not count the cost of what he gives. His heart is set on pleasing and cheering him to whom the gift is given.” -Julian of Norwich-