March 23, 2012

This morning we have a 10:30 funeral for Charles Orr, a servant of Christ and true hero of the faith. Jim Massey will preside and I will assist, just as we did at Charlie Hoag’s memorial service yesterday.

Romans 5

As I read this chapter, it seems to me that this might be one of the most beautiful, balanced, perfect chapters of scripture. Beginning with “Therefore having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,” and ending with “as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” these 21 verses speak to my heart this morning of peace, righteousness, hope, and eternal life.

In Martin Luther’s commentary on Romans, he makes this observation:
“The apostle sets forth a most apt antithesis (in four ways): first, he who is justified by faith has peace with God, but tribulation in the world, because his life is spiritual. Secondly, the unrighteous have peace with the world, but anguish and tribulation with God, because their life is carnal. Thirdly, as God the Holy Spirit is eternal, so also the peace of the righteous and the tribulation of the unrighteous will be everlasting. Lastly, as the flesh is temporal, so also the tribulation of the righteous and the peace of the unrighteous will be temporary.” (From Luther’s lectures 1515 – 1516, translated by J. Theodore Mueller, published by Zondervan 1954.)

Verses 3-5 develop this line of reasoning: “…tribulation brings about perseverance, and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” Last night my perseverance was not easy, and I realize that it brings about proven character. This morning I will be with a family whose loved one has persevered through the trials and tribulations of this life, including being a medic in World War II in the Pacific theater, and is now reigning with Christ in eternal life.

Guide my steps today, most holy Lord, as I serve You, and live a life pointing to Your saving grace and eternal promises.