Friday 23 April, 2021

I have travelled to India and Nepal a number of times and am always impressed and touched by the connection that exists between Christians, even when we have never met and are from very different cultures. Here we see Paul writing to Christians in Rome, whom he has never met, but writing with a warmth and trust for them. He is looking forward to their company, expecting them to support him financially and spiritually on his proposed journey to Spain and asking them to pray for him for his journey to deliver aid to the church in Jerusalem.

It is a bit sad reading Paul’s hopeful plans and knowing that, despite the prayer of the Roman Christians, he was arrested and imprisoned while in Jerusalem and ended up coming to Rome in chains instead of freely. However, we also know that “God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). Paul shared the gospel with many of the soldiers he was chained to (a captive audience!) and the gospel spread among Caesar’s household, so God definitely brought good out of that situation.

Where does that leave me? I rejoice at the worldwide family I am in! As family care for each other through good times and bad I have a fresh desire to connect with, pray for and support Christians in other places.

Dear Lord Jesus, thank you that your death and resurrection means that I have a new, worldwide family. Please help me to love them as you do. Amen

Written by Megan Cornell