Epistle Reflection
If we suffer, let it not be for murder, theft or sorcery,
nor for infringing the rights of others;
but if we suffer as Christians
we should feel no disgrace,
but confess that name to the honour of God.
It gives us a share in Christ’s sufferings.
That is cause for joy!
New Testament Reading - Christian Duty
9Don’t just pretend that you love others: really love them. Hate what is wrong. Stand on the side of the good. 10Love each other with brotherly affection and take delight in honoring each other. 11Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically.
12Be glad for all God is planning for you. Be patient in trouble, and prayerful always. 13When God’s children are in need, you be the one to help them out. And get into the habit of inviting guests home for dinner or, if they need lodging, for the night.
14If someone mistreats you because you are a Christian, don’t curse him; pray that God will bless him. 15When others are happy, be happy with them. If they are sad, share their sorrow. 16Work happily together. Don’t try to act big. Don’t try to get into the good graces of important people, but enjoy the company of ordinary folks. And don’t think you know it all!
17Never pay back evil for evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honest clear through. 18Don’t quarrel with anyone. Be at peace with everyone, just as much as possible.
19Dear friends, never avenge yourselves. Leave that to God, for he has said that he will repay those who deserve it. Don’t take the law into your own hands.a 20Instead, feed your enemy if he is hungry. If he is thirsty give him something to drink and you will be “heaping coals of fire on his head.” In other words, he will feel ashamed of himself for what he has done to you. 21Don’t let evil get the upper hand, but conquer evil by doing good.
. . . . . Romans 12:9-21- Implied
Intercession
Pray for 5 people on your heart ending with the prayer below.
Heavenly Father
We pray for… those in need:
those who suffer;
the sick;
the poor;
the distressed;
the lonely; the unloved;
the persecuted;
the unemployed;
those who grieve; and those who care for them…
Comfort and heal, merciful Lord,
all who are in sorrow, need, sickness, or any other trouble.
Give them a firm trust in your goodness;
help those who minister to them;
and bring us all into the joy of your salvation.
Father, hear our prayer,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.