Reflecting
Our Faith
…living sacrifices, holy and pleasing
to God…
Romans 12:1
Jake was learning to walk, and his
parents, Olivia and Michael, couldn’t wait to witness those first
few steps. Olivia held Jake from behind while Michael coaxed him,
“C’mon Buddy!” The look on their faces showed both anticipation
and anxiety. “It’s okay, Jaky, Daddy won’t let you fall; trust
me,” he assured his son.
Jake took a tentative step, turned, and
looked up at his mother, seeking reassurance. She smiled and echoed
Michael’s words of encouragement, “Daddy won’t let you fall,
Honey. Go ahead…walk to Daddy.”
Jake grinned, and letting go of
Olivia’s hand, wove his way to Michael in a bobble-headed journey
lasting six independent steps!
The subsequent mixture of tears and
jubilation startled Jake, causing him to respond in confusion and
tears. Michael lifted him to eye-level and smiled, saying, “Sorry,
Jake. We didn’t mean to startle you. Everything’s okay,”
Michael said, and tossed Jake into the air and caught him. This was
one of Jake’s favorite things; his tears instantly turned to
giggling and laughter. Michael stood him on the floor and said,
“Mommy and I are so proud of you!”
“You’re such a big boy, Jake! You
walked so far! And Daddy didn’t let you fall,” Olivia added,
emphasizing the didn’t let you fall so Jake could make the
connection between his fear, and learning to trust.
†
Paul’s letter to the Romans is a
guide to Christian living; the learning curve between our faith and
trust…and God’s ability to handle us with care. Paul invites us
to live through the power of the Holy Spirit for Christ through
faith.
Faith expresses itself through
obedience; it always reflects what’s hidden inside. In our
Spiritual infancy, we, like children learning to walk, are hesitant;
we must assess the risk before submitting ourselves to Someone with
which we have no history. We guard each step until we find we are on
solid ground.
As we mature we learn to trust
unreservedly. And once in true relationship, our lives become
pleasing and holy, reflecting our faith.
Prayer
“Lord Jesus, help me
become a living sacrifice that others might see You though me. Guide
and protect me as I renew the way I think about my life, lived for
Your glory. Amen.”
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