22 This is the reason that I have so often been hindered from coming to you. 23 But now, with no further place for me in these regions, I desire, as I have for many years, to come to you 24 when I go to Spain. For I do hope to see you on my journey and to be sent on by you, once I have enjoyed your company for a little while. 25 At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem in a ministry to the saints, 26 for Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to share their resources with the poor among the saints at Jerusalem. 27 They were pleased to do this, and indeed they owe it to them, for if the gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material things. 28 So, when I have completed this and have delivered to them what has been collected, I will set out by way of you to Spain, 29 and I know that when I come to you I will come in the fullness of the blessing of Christ.
This little snippet from Paul’s letter the Romans is both autobiographical and instructional. This passage speaks of Paul’s life and passion, and gives us hints to how we can all share in the work of the Gospel.
The story that Paul, the missionary, tells here is truly a snapshot of Christian mission. Paul has taken his missionary journeys in partnership with those who have joined him or paved the way. He plans to visit the saints in Rome, to share the gospel with them, and to have their support for what he hopes will be a future missionary journey to Spain. (Mission happens when we work together to share the Good News of Jesus with those who haven’t already heard.) And, on the way, Paul is planning to stop in Jerusalem to share the blessings of a collection taken in the newer churches with the poor saints who originally started sharing the Good News right after the resurrection of Jesus.
Paul was always eager to invite others to share in the sharing of what God has done for us in Jesus Christ.
As our life stories are written, will they reflect some partnership with others in sharing the Good News? We have a chance to make sure that chapter is included.
Prayer
God, I thank you for those who have shared your love with me. Let me join in spreading that Good News in my daily life. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.