Moses writes concerning the righteousness that comes from the law, that ‘the person who does these things will live by them.’ But the righteousness that comes from faith says, ‘Do not say in your heart, “Who will ascend into heaven?”’ (that is, to bring Christ down) ‘or “Who will descend into the abyss?”’ (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). But what does it say?
‘The word is near you, on your lips and in your heart’
(that is, the word of faith that we proclaim); because if you confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For one believes with the heart and so is justified, and one confesses with the mouth and so is saved. The scripture says, ‘No one who believes in him will be put to shame.’ For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and is generous to all who call on him. For, ‘Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.’
Reflection
What was I thinking? I know there will be many of you who will relish a theological challenge on a Monday morning, but I think it was, to me, a simple statement that drew me to this reading. “For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and is generous to all who call on him. For, everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
I am not sure it is that simple. Aren’t there pages of Terms and Conditions that have to be read and agreed to? And, surely there are huge differences between Jew and Greek, and many other groups of people today? We don’t have to look far beyond the places we inhabit to find those who are marginalized and excluded. Even if, and when, they call on the name of the Lord!!
Maybe it is only God who can bridge the huge divides that surround us.
On a Monday morning it may seem an insurmountable task, but maybe calling on the name of the Lord is a good place to start.
Hear us, when we call on your name, Lord. Save us, Save us. And let us be a bridge over the chasms of division and exclusion in our world. Do not let us fall. Amen
Today’s Writer
Fredwyn Hosier. Synod pastoral Consultant, Thames North and Elder at Palmers Green URC
St. Andrew's United Reformed Church - The United Reformed Church in Monkseaton and Whitley Bay
This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Cookie settingsACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy
Privacy Overview
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
