His-story

Romans 1:1-7

Observe
Paul is writing this letter - he doesn't say where he is writing it from but it is clear that he is writing to the Christians in Rome. He repeats the word "called" (v.1, 5, 6, 7) and compares the earthly heritage of Christ (from the line of David) with the spiritual heritage of Christ (Son of God) - both speaking to the fact that Jesus is the Messiah.

Interpret
Paul is reminding his readers that they are part of something bigger than themselves and that ultimately it is God who called them (more than their choosing it). Paul has the sense that he is called to be an apostle who calls others to belong to Christ and be obedient to him. There's a deep sense of responsibility attached.
Paul also has a deep sense of the history of the redemption story: the good news from God was spoken of way before Christ - it is seen in the ancient writings of the prophets. This is not new! The plan of God was being worked out all through human history.

Apply
This shows me that God is sovreign. Sometimes I forget that he rules and that he knows the future - nothing catches him off guard. He doesn't react to situations but knew they were coming even before time began. I can't comprehend this but this passage reminds me that it is true.
Paul has challenged me with a deep sense of belonging and responsibility. This gospel of God that I have been called to goes back all through history. I feel the weight of responsibility to continue to tell and work out the story of redemption in my context. I feel the weight of my spiritual heritage - as if the prophets, apostles and early Christians have handed down the torch of faith through the centuries until it has reached me. I now have the responsibility to shine the light of Christ and bring the message of reconciliation to this world. I have been called!