Sun 23 Apr

Paul's letter to the church at Rome in the first century challenged many. Augustine and Luther came to faith through Romans. In the opening verses of Romans, Paul expresses his passion for the good news contained in the gospel. An excitement and passion he desires to pass on to others. It is a gospel not been made up by cleverly contrived stories. It is a gospel promised long ago. It is a gospel Paul desires to preach. Paul has a long help desire to visit Rome and the fledgling church that has commenced there. He has heard of their faith and desires to see for himself what God is doing there. And if the opportunity presents itself to preach and share in the harvest there through mutual encouragement. Although we would long to see a bountiful harvest take place in Wyndham, there is also our challenge of mutually encouraging one another as we meet together, whether it be in a worship service or simply catching up with someone over a cuppa or through a text message. Paul's passion for the gospel is driven by what he sees the gospel can do. He is not ashamed of the gospel. In his words, it is the power of God for salvation. "For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last."Paul is not the only one passionate about this good news. So to were Augustine and Luther and many others. While others are excited and passionate about the gospel, what about ourselves? As we begin this journey through Romans, may you be encouraged by God's Word.