27They were pleased to do it, and indeed they owe it to them. For if the Gentiles have shared in the Jews’ spiritual blessings, they owe it to the Jews to share with them their material blessings.
- P60
28So after I have completed this task and have made sure that they have received this contribution, I will go to Spain and visit you on the way.
29I know that when I come to you, I will come in the full measure of the blessing of Christ.
30I urge you, brothers and sisters, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me. - P61
Paul explains that he has been delayed in visiting Rome because his work inthe eastern regions was not yet complete. He plans to go to Spain and visitthe believers in Rome on the way. But first, he will deliver a contribution tothe poor in Jerusalem. He asks the believers to pray for safety and acceptanceof his service. - P61
Paul expresses his desire to visit the believers in Rome as part of his larger missionary journey on his way to Spain. Although he did not plant the Roman church, Paul recognizes and values the partnership of the Christians there. His request for support—both spiritual and practical—underscores the importance of collaboration and challenges individualistic approaches to ministry, reminding us that gospel work is never meant to be done in isolation. - P62
Paul’s vision is shaped by a deep understanding of the global nature of the church and of God’s mission, and, today, we are to continue supporting, encouraging, and providing resources for one another in fulfilling the Great Commission because we are all fellow workers in God’s mission.
- P62
In a gesture of love and unity, the Gentile churches are sending Paul withcontributions for the struggling believers in Jerusalem. Paul frames thesupport not merely as generosity but as moral and spiritual obligation. TheGentiles have shared in Israel‘s spiritual blessings and now respond withmaterial gifts. Their actions embody the gospel: grace received, grace shared.
- P62
Yet, Paul‘s heart remains heavy for the Jews. He longs for their salvation andhopes that his relief mission might open gospel doors. He asks for prayeras he completes his journey. Paul‘s example challenges us to have a burdenfor those who are not yet saved. We should be moved not only to pray butalso to act for their salvation. - P62
Father, thank you for the privilege of partnering with others in Your kingdom work. Help me to be generous in my support, humble in serving alongside others, and attentive in embracing the full scope of Your mission. In Your Son’s name I pray, amen. - P63
Paul mentions in today‘s passage that the Gentile believers in Macedoniaand Achaia were glad to make contributions that aided the poor believersin Jerusalem. What is especially important to note is how and why these be-lieversgave. They were not reluctant or embittered about giving to believerswho were geographically far or ethnically different from their own commu-nities. The believers in Macedonia and Achaia recognized the material needof their fellow Christians and were happy to help.
. - P63
The passage reminds us of the way we ought to give to others in need.
Whether we offer our time, money, or talents, when we give, our attitudeshould reflect a heart of compassion. We should give freely and cheerfullyrather than reluctantly or begrudgingly. If we are reluctant, we should stopand check our hearts, asking the Lord why we feel so hesitant. Perhaps weare holding too tightly to our finances or are being too selfish with our time.
Perhaps our hearts need to be softened with greater empathy towards othersso that we might give the way the Lord intends. - P63
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