July 6, 2010
Romans 16
Pastor John Edwards
One of the greatest feelings is the sense of being welcomed, especially when no one knows us. It’s even better when preceded by a commendation…when someone thinks highly enough of us to attach his/her reputation with ours – or at least our potential.
A commendation communicates value. On the strength of a positive recommendation, one person may be hired instead of another. A high school senior is admitted to a college or university. A company or individual is awarded a work contract.
While reading the Romans 16 portion of Paul’s letter to part of the early Church, I’m stricken by the power of his commendations. In verses 1-15, his words express solid confidence in individuals who – through spiritual influence – were viewed as difference-makers in the Kingdom of God. What a blessing to be recommended in Christ Jesus as a fellow worker, risk taker, hard worker, ‘tested and approved in Christ,’ ‘in the Lord’ or like a parent!
It’s led me to ponder this question: If you or I moved to an area where we knew no one, what spiritual recommendation would accompany us? If that commendation is sound, God will take care of everything else.
Incidentally, it’s noteworthy that Paul used the Greek word "aspazomai” when asking believers to “greet” these individuals. The word literally means "to enfold in the arms" – like family. Who wouldn’t want a welcome like that?
Did you know? For Pastor John, a great vacation would include his wife and children on a trip along the Southern California coast, coupled with a Hawaiian cruise.
