St Peters RC Church Hamilton

“The Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled.” (Romans 15 v 4 NLT)

The laws of the land are based on certain principles.

Principles of fairness, justice, peace and harmony established

Exactly as the Lord God intends life to be for every society.

These principles can all be summed up readily,

In one demand which is to love one another.

The Lord Jesus did amplify this teaching slightly,

Asking us to love thoroughly as He has loved us.

“May God who gives this patience and encouragement, help us to live in complete harmony with each other, as is fitting for followers of Christ Jesus.” (Romans 15 v 5 NLT)  

“Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you” (Romans 15 v 7 NLT)

Is a salutary lesson well worth remembering. 

Did our Brother criticise, judge or condemn us? No!

Christ Jesus is the Encourager, the Uplifter, the Joy Giver.

By means of the Holy Spirit, He guides us.

Yes, He does chide us, but mainly for our own benefit, 

As well as the general welfare of all concerned.

“I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill us completely with joy and peace because we trust in Him.” (based on Romans 15 v 13) 

“Then we will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” (based on Romans 15 v 13)

Let us pray with thanksgiving for all the help and guidance given by Christ Jesus, according to the ongoing efforts of the Spirit, striving to make us holy.

“Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them.” (Romans 12 v 9 NLT) 

“Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good.” (v 9 cont) 

“Love each other with genuine affection and take delight in honouring each other.” (v 10) 

“Never be lazy. Work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically.” (v 11)

“Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying.” (v 12) 

“When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them.” (v 12) 

“Always be eager to practice hospitality.” (v 12) 

“Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them.” (v 14)

“Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep.” (v 15) 

“Live in harmony with each other.” (v 16) 

“Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!” (v 16)

“Never pay back evil with more evil.” (v 17)

“Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honourable.” ( v 17) 

“Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.” (v 18) 

“Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.” (v 21) 

Thank You for this blueprint for holiness, by which we can succeed in living to please others. Amen.