Read Romans 16

As a card-carrying introvert, this is an important chapter for me.

We talk about God’s relationship to the world, His love for the lost, His grace in the Church, but we tend to talk in general, corporate terms – big picture.  You know.  God loves all people.  For God so loved the world…

Romans 16 brings us back to the reality of God’s heart – His love and delight in His individual children.  In fewer than 24 verses, Paul references more than 38 people by name and/or specific relationship.  He is careful to send greetings to each one, and the emotion of the Scripture is evident as he lovingly remembers and describes each.

And look at the descriptors –

servant; succorer (one who gives assistance or relief); helper; well-beloved; beloved; my beloved; who labor in the Lord; chosen; saints; workfellow; brother

Terms of  endearment.  Names that indicate close relationship and importance.

God doesn’t just focus on the big picture.  He sees each individual.  He notices each act of service, and He takes joy in each serving heart.  As I read these words, I have to wonder what description is attached to my name when the Lord thinks of me.

If God focuses on the individual, then so must I.  I meet a lot of people each day – family, friends, store clerks, officers, teachers, children, teenagers.  Do I notice their cares, their joys, their gifts? Do I interact with them or just pass by?  Are they blips on my screen, or do I see them as God sees them?

That is my challenge for today!

Romans 16: ²⁴ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. ²⁵ Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, ²⁶ But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith: ²⁷ To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.