Cornerstone

Romans 15:1-6 (5)

Cleo could be so frustrating! He was saved from sins that were even considered socially disgusting. He and his family all came to God. It pumped new life into our church. We saw redemptive lift in action as a family was literally lifted from the gutter to a place of acceptance and respect. But then . . .

Cleo could be so frustrating! He got a job. But he squandered his money and was destitute most of the time. He quit his habits to the amazements of his friends. He returned to his habits repeatedly to the pleasure of his friends.

Cleo and Bobbie were in love with Jesus and were learning how to be Christians. When I and the church people felt at times like giving them an ultimatum . . . “shape up or ship out” we refrained. When we felt like withholding a helping hand we instead smiled in pain as we lifted them up once again. Raising children is sometimes a painful process. Paul reminded us in Romans 15:1 that the “strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.” As we are patient with those struggling to grow in Christ it will help us to remember “the God of patience and consolation” vs. 5 was considerate of us as well.

Dr. Gayle Woods

Rom. 8:29

A familiar slogan for young basketball lovers is “I wanna be like Mike.” Michael Jordan brought a new element to the game of basketball with his expertise and grace. His personality only enhanced his skill at the game. People all across the nation were charmed by him even when they did not like the team for which he played. The book of Acts tells us that something similar took place early in the history of the church. When the enemies of God called the believers “Christians” at the Antioch church they meant it to be a term of derision. The Christians, however, happily accepted the term with pride. “Christian” means “to be like Christ.” This is God’s will for us . . . that we be transformed into the image of His Son. (Rom. 8:29) That is the will of those who truly love Him. To be holy even as He is holy. (1 Pet 1:16) “I wanna be like Jesus.”

Dr. Gayle Woods