Read: Romans 15:1-7
We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. 3 For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me.” 4 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. 5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.
Suggested prayer for my own receiving:
Father, God of endurance and encouragement, you are patient with me! You encourage me by showing me the life of Jesus and enabling me to walk in his footsteps. I don’t know whether I’m “strong” or “weak” in different situations. Help me to carry the load for others, even when they fail. Grant me your patience.
As I think of a Christian with whom harmony is difficult for me:
Holy Spirit, creator of harmony, when we live together and worship together this Sunday, I know it’s your doing! It’s your miracle. Grant us one voice in worship together. Lord, in this situation where cooperation and harmony is really hard, please do your work in my heart. Show me words in your scriptures that will encourage me and allow me to live in confident hope.
Suggested prayer for the preaching this Sunday:
My friend, Jesus, you set the standard: you welcomed us all! Let the words of preaching be words of welcome to relationship with you and one another. Let the preaching welcome everyone to leave the shackles of pleasing only ourselves. You, our Lord God, are worthy of honor! Let every life touched by the preaching be tuned toward harmony.
