prayers for the people

Romans 1:8-13

Paul is thankful for the Roman Christians' faith which is being reported all over the world. This makes me wonder why their faith stood out. It could be that they were facing great persecution and were standing firm in the faith or that they were extremely generous (or something else entirely but those two things come to mind). Paul tells them that he prays for them all the time; specifically that he might be able to come and visit them. Paul has longed to visit them for a long time to strengthen and grow their faith and to see many other Gentiles come to Christ as well.

Paul ministered with humility. Often when a superstar Christian comes to town people flock to hear them in order to be blessed. Paul recognized that not only would he be encouraging the people but that they would encourage him. In our Christian faith there is this idea of mutual benefit. It shouldn't surprise us because as we go out to act and speak on behalf of Jesus (in effect to be Jesus to the world) we also find Jesus in the faces of the "least of these." As we seek to become Jesus to those we serve, they become Jesus to us and both are encouraged and built up. This means that when we go on our mission trip or to the seniors center or work at Streets Alive that we are not just ministering to people but we receive from them as well. We need each other. It is not just the professionals ministering to the lay people or the rich ministering to the poor. It is mutual.

What I am really struck with is my need to pray for my people more: my students and my staff, missionaries, co-workers, family, Christians in other parts of the world facing persecution. Paul said he constantly remembered the Roman Christians in his prayers at all times. I want that "all time" kind of prayer life - where I am in constant communion and communication with my Lord.