Romans 15:1-2 CSB
“Now we who are strong have an obligation to bear the weaknesses of those without strength, and not to please ourselves. Each one of us is to please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.”
Happy Mother’s Day!
Caring mothers are noted for their willingness to sacrifice their needs in order to provide for their children. They are noted for their wisdom and strength of character. When the children have siblings, they are noted for encouraging their children to help their brothers and/or sisters whenever necessary. Mothers recognize how easy it is for those who are strong to take advantage of those who are weak.
In the text, Paul writes to the saints in the Roman church to encourage the strong to carry or assist those who were weak. It is instinctual for people to please themselves whether it negatively impacts others or not.
Paul expands his thought and challenges his readers to go beyond the confines of the church, of their comfort zone, and build up the lives of their neighbors. This type of outreach would not be possible if there were no authentic spiritual transformation. That’s when we desire and are as concerned about the growth and development of others as we are for our own welfare. It happens as we are being conformed to the image and likeness of our Lord and Savior. Paul wanted his readers not to just reflect the image of God, but to mirror His character.
Mothers were created to personify this very lofty ideal. They get more practice than their male counterparts by virtue of their role as the family nurturer. When mothers are aligned with God’s purpose, they embody the teaching of Paul. They are a blessing to their families and their community in the same way Paul encouraged his readers to bless the church and beyond. A mother’s love can go above and beyond!
Be Blessed!
Rev. J. Loren Russell is President/CEO of The JLR Company and The J. Loren R Consulting, LLC for Church Financial Strategy & Consulting, an associate minister at both Goodwill and The Greater Universal Baptist Churches in the Bronx, creator & host of “Matters of Faith – The Radio Show” Mondays 8:00 – 10:00 PM on Facebook LIVE and author of Matters of Faith: The Book (eBook available at www.smashwords.com/books/view/993177)
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