Suggested Readings: Psalm 39, Ezekiel 17:1-10, Romans 2:12-16
During this season of Lent, we turn towards unambiguous self-reflection. In our scripture for today, Paul writes to the people of Rome:
For as many as have sinned without law will also perish without law, and as many as have sinned in the law will be judged by the law.
God has revealed His attributes to everybody in the world, both the righteous and the unrighteous. Through creation, His existence is evident, yet the ungodly will not glorify Him as God, nor thank Him. The wrath of God will be revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness because what may be known of God has certainly been expressed to them.
We are called to submit ourselves to God. In every task at home or work, in our social relationships, in our business endeavors, and in how we form our opinions. We must first ask ourselves the most fundamental questions upon which everything else stands and falls:
Do we really believe that the teachings of Christ are practical and applicable to our lives in the world? Do we really believe that the Holy Spirit is in us making “all things possible,” including the keeping of the commandments of Christ? Do I use my life and everything I have as that which belongs to God? Am I possessive, selfish, self-righteous, self-seeking? Do I share the earth's goods with others, knowing that all is God’s? Do I love and make peace?
Just as Paul was not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, we must also live boldly in His name. These questions, which were expressed from light of the beatitudes, are offered as a general indication of what our approach should be, rather than as an “examination of our conscience.”
God forgives our sins not merely on the condition that we confess them, but on the condition that we truly hate them and try to overcome them. In repentance, there is no place for pitying our sins, or justifying them, or explaining them, or putting the blame on others or on the situation or human weakness. Sins can be recognized and confronted by people but forgiven by God. Let us utilize this transformative opportunity we were given in this season many years ago to live eternally with God in the next life.
Nebiu Ermias
Nebiu Ermias
