Reading
Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all (Romans 12:11-19)
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Reflection
The words in these verses read like a roadmap of how one should lead one’s life. All of the sentiments are things we would like to achieve, although we seldom do, and the way they are written is to urge us try harder and is in no way judgemental or critical. The positivism flowing from the words refresh me each time I read them. During Lent we are given an opportunity to explore our spiritual life more deeply and this simple roadmap gives us the building blocks to make great strides in that direction by reminding us of the path that we should be following but more than this to do it with zeal and to rejoice in it. Reading it frequently will maintain your zest for life and help you to feel at peace with God.
Spiritual Exercise
Your to-do for today: Do 1 minute of exercise making sure that it is appropriate for your age, fitness level and physical capability. The physical exertion will remind you of the striving in our spiritual lives to try and follow the principles outlines in the verses.
Music
Have a listen to these great songs as you think about today’s reflection:
Make us instruments of your peace
Digging Deeper
Want to spend a little time digging into this series?
Church of England Daily Prayer.
Church of England Lent: LiveLent: God’s Story, Our Story
Link to St Andrews online Services.
