God's Love is with us!

God’s Love is with us!
This closing passage of Romans 8 contains some of the best news you and I will ever hear: “Nothing can separate us from God’s love.” Nothing! This is the rock upon which to build our lives. It will keep us steady in uncertain times, such as these. It will reassure us when we are fearful and refresh us when weary.
Paul recognizes that we may be tempted to think God no longer loves us when we face difficult times. In verse 35 he asks, “Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death?” The answer is “No.” Though we will suffer in this life (Romans 8 has already dealt honestly with this fact) that does not mean God doesn’t love us.
How can we be certain of God’s love for us in times like these, when we’re tempted to doubt? The last phrase of Romans 8 provides that answer. God’s perfect love for us “is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” As we learn earlier in Romans, “God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners” (Rom. 5:8). If ever we come to doubt God’s love for us, just look to the cross. There on the cross we see the love of God poured out, a love not just for humankind in general, but for us in particular during these times of never-ending uncertainty.
With God’s love, we are empowered to live boldly and share that love with others. We are inspired to take risks for the sake of the kingdom of God, knowing that whether we succeed or fail, God’s love for us is constant in our lives. His promises have never failed, His love endures forever and His mercies are renewed each morning. Friends, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Grace and peace always,
Fr. Greg+

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