Fourth Sunday in Advent: Epistle, Romans 1:1-7                

Romans 1:1-7

Advent! Waiting and watching, praying and hoping. For … Jesus. So what’s with the title above? Well at the very start of Paul’s masterpiece on Jesus, He speaks about the place Jesus has placed him. It’s a bit odd in regard to all the correct focus of the season but please take note of what Paul has to say here: “Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God …” (Romans 1:1). Please note the following:

Paul is Paul. In God giving the gifts we will focus on, God did not reduce anything that the man Paul was. Forward. Paul claimed, by God’s hand, that he was first “servant,” then “called,” then “apostle,” and finally “separated.” This is KJV language where newer translations might use, for separated, the words “set apart.” But take in those terms. They are not titles of shame or lowliness. They are gifts from the Lord of heaven. God’s gifts of placing the man Paul into His grand service and plan. And Paul rejoiced in it. All his life long.

Now forward to verse seven. The recipients of the good news of Jesus through Paul have “positions” too. We indeed are called, servants, and separated. But look at what Paul says first about us. We are “beloved of God.” What else do we really need to hear? BELOVED of God! Wow! And then “called to be saints.” Holy ones by calling, not by effort. By gift not grit. My, my. 

The title of our meditation is “Me?” But remember this dear and beloved saint: When we look at ourselves in Christ, it is really Him upon whom we gaze. I’m still me, but made new from the inside out. And Him? Well, He doesn’t change one bit. Never has. Never will. 

This season, and through all seasons, Jesus sees Himself with us. With me. Even me.