Fields United Methodist Church

Romans 12:9-21 is a blueprint for living a new life in Christ focusing on loving God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength as well as loving our neighbor as ourselves. Yet one verse sticks out as one often neglected; “if it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” (Romans 12:18) So often we live peaceably with others as long as they live up to our standards, beliefs, and practices.  We wait for another, often times with disdain and arms folded, for our neighbor, friend, or even family member to conform to how we think and what we do. Yet being a neighbor is all about being Christ to another, sharing the Good News in how we live our lives in Christ. Living peaceably with our neighbor is about sharing the peace of Christ, letting “love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor.” (Romans 12:9-10) Living “life in Christ” is not easy but the burden is lessened when we lay down our standards we set for others and strive towards living the standard that Christ has set for us. Celebrate the new life Jesus the Christ has offered you through sharing the same gift with your neighbor; you will be blessed and you are a blessing. Thank you Jesus offering us new life filled with hope, joy, grace, and the peace that surpasses all understanding!