Romans 4:18-25

“It will be reckoned to us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead, who was handed over to death for our trespasses and was raised for our justification.” vss. 24-25

For Paul, Abraham and Sarah’s faith experience wasn’t just a bit of Israel’s history, it actually demonstrated the nature of God’s gracious love. Paul told the Romans that the old story was for them too, and that it showed the blessings that came with faith. For a people caught up in the confusion and turmoil of first century Rome, this was good news. Trusting that Jesus had been raised from the dead not only meant that they had hope for the future, but that they also had forgiveness of sins. It was a full package!

A lot of time has passed since Paul wrote these words, but they still have the ring of truth. Many things have changed, new ideas have expanded human knowledge, but humans still struggle with brokenness and worry about the future. We still need a faith that addresses both our past and our future.

Now there are multitudes of belief systems that aspire to bring the healing we crave. Answers to our deepest needs abound! But even now there’s something precious about the simplicity of Paul’s declaration. Not only is it rooted in history, it has stood the test of time. And most important of all, it works! Those who trust that in Jesus there is life and salvation have persistent and life-long serenity. And who could want for anything more?

Thought for the Day: How persistent is my serenity?