“This letter is from Paul, a slave of Christ Jesus, chosen by God to be an apostle and sent out to preach his Good News. God promised this Good News long ago through his prophets in the holy Scriptures. The Good News is about his Son…” (Romans 1:1-3)

Paul’s opening words to the believers in Rome speak of three glorious parts of our identity in Christ. First of all, Paul described himself as “a slave of Christ Jesus.” Not just a servant, but a bondservant, a slave. Servants can get freedom from their masters, but Paul had no desire to be free from Christ. To whom else can we turn? None but Jesus! He alone has “the words of eternal life” (John 6:68). Secondly, Paul says he’s “chosen by God” to be an apostle. We too have been chosen. “But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession” (1 Peter 2:9a). It’s a privilege to be a servant and it’s an honour to be chosen to do tasks for this Master! Thirdly, Paul says he’s “sent out to preach His Good News” and this “Good News is about His Son.” Whatever our vocation, job or business of activity, the message is the same: “To proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvellous light” (1 Peter 2:9b). Everything Paul described is exactly what God said about him to Ananias. God said: “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim My name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel” (Acts 9:15).

Father, thank You for this privilege and honour. Help us, in the power of the Spirit, to daily bear this identity gloriously for Your name. Amen!

#goodmorning

BeEncouraged❤ Freely received. Freely shared