Today we read the last chapter of Paul’s letter to the Romans. Paul’s closing words encompass the entire good news of God, from the prophetic Old Testament writings to the proclamation of Jesus Christ being made known to all nations. God’s eternal being, His wisdom, knowledge, and power, are all far beyond ours. He calls those of faith to respond in obedience to His will. The Gospel of Jesus Christ was entrusted to Paul and faithfully proclaimed among the nations in accordance with God’s will. • At the bottom of his music, world- famous Lutheran musician Johann Sebastian Bach wrote “S.D.G” (Latin: Soli Deo Gloria), “to God alone the glory.” Paul ends his marvelous expression of Law and Gospel in Romans on the same note. He then adds that this is all in and through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory. Amen!

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 9802). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read Romans 15. Paul lays out his current travel plans. Our desires to serve God may be hindered if we are not willing to accept gifts from others. Christ empowered Paul’s mission work and gave it the fullness of His blessing (verse 29). He will give us joy, refreshment, and peace as well. • Thank You, God, for spiritual blessings of peace and joy, as well as for the encouragement given to me by my brothers and sisters in Christ. I praise You also for the material blessings You have entrusted to me. Guide me to use them wisely and to share with those in need. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (pp. 9797-9798). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read Romans 14. Paul continues to deal specifically with first-century controversial issues among Jewish and Gentile Christians (foods and holy days). Paul knows all foods are clean, but flaunting his freedoms will give offense in the presence of Jewish Christians who still observe Old Testament food laws. In a similar manner, we should not engage in behaviors that would cause other believers to stumble in their faith. When we commit actions against our own Spirit-informed Christian conscience, we sin. Freedom in Christ is not simply freedom from the Law, but freedom given for a purpose, to serve others in love (Galatians 5:13). God’s kingdom (Romans 14:17) has been given to us through Jesus Christ and by the Holy Spirit. • Father, thank You for the freedom You give me in the kingdom of Your Son, Jesus. May I enjoy my freedom by using it to serve others. Show me when I ought to limit my freedom for the benefit of my brothers and sisters in the faith. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 9791). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read Romans 13. The requirements and essence of God’s Law have not changed from the OT. The Law shows us how to love others as we have been loved by God in Christ. “All have sinned and fall short” of God’s requirement to love Him and others (3:23). The Gospel calls us to rely on God’s mercy in Christ, which then motivates us to love as we have been loved. The context of Romans assures us that God declares us righteous, not because of our ability to love, but solely because of Christ, who “is the end of the law” (10:4). • Father, You have loved me in Christ and declared me to be Your righteous child. Empower me to love and serve others through Christ. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 9787). (Function). Kindle Edition.