D ear Friends:

Paul, the author of Romans, was a “born-again” Christian literally (Romans 1:16-17;3:22b-28). He encountered Jesus first-hand on the Damascus Road. And he couldn’t stop sharing his faith for the rest of his life, both in person and in his writings. How do we come to such a faith commitment?

Is it by attending church? Is it by participating in mission work? Is it by giving our money to the poor? Is it by working on a church staff?

All of these experiences can be an open door to knowing Jesus. Paul states in the text for today, however, that it is through the Gospels that we know and understand the heart of Jesus. By accepting the Gospel as God’s Word, his power to save everyone comes through belief. God is able to reveal righteousness and truth to the believer.

God treats all of us as individuals, no one more special or less special than the rest. We all act in a way less than God’s standard for us. But belief in Jesus and what he did brings God’s grace to us. Through his holy blood he brings believers to a point of justice. Our faith takes us to a higher standard of living according to God’s way and gives us a desire to share and welcome everyone into God’s family. Does such a faith (belief and trust) shape your daily attitude, your choices? Does how you live in the world show evidence of Jesus’ influence? These are good questions to ponder and pray over as we continue our Lenten journey.

This faith has shaped the ministry of Shepherd of the Prairie for going on 10 years. It has given our church purpose to reach out and welcome others to come and learn and serve such a God. As God continues to grow and bless the church, I pray that we continue to be a welcoming outpost for the grace of God to abound.

Dear Lord and giver of life, we pray for Shepherd of the Prairie to be strong in faith and to equip each of us to be “welcomers” to all we meet, in your holy name. Amen.

May the blessings of God abound as you continue your walk of faith.

Pastor Mark
(March, 2010)