Introduction:
Sometimes hope is hard to come by. The harder we search for it, the more elusive it is.
This seven part series leads us into and through Advent by inviting us to stillness. In that stillness, we may begin to hear hope’s song.
Hope for the Gentiles
Read: Romans 15:7-13
Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people. (Romans 15:10)
Most of us don’t pay much attention to the Bible’s references to “Gentiles.” But we ought to. In fact, our ears ought to be tingling. Unless we came to Christ along a Jewish path, the Bible is talking about us.
This passage is full of quotes from the Old Testament. The one thing they all have in common is a concern for the Gentiles. That concern has been on God’s agenda since the call of Abraham, who was blessed to be a blessing to “all the families of the earth” (Genesis 12:3).
This extravagant example of God’s grace is the basis for Paul’s exhortation: “Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God” (v. 7).
This Advent, remember that your invitation to celebrate the birth and blessing of the Messiah is nothing less than an act of God’s extravagant grace. Then let your own hope overflow from that abundance, and share the good news with everyone you meet.
Prayer: As you have welcomed us, Lord Jesus, help us to welcome others into the joy and peace of believing.