I hope Romans 3 has treated you well. Paul’s letter constantly reminds us to never approach God on our own terms. God sent Jesus to the cross so that Jesus would be the way we approach God. It is only by God made man, that man approaches God.
We will read Romans 4 for the next seven days as we continue in Paul’s masterpiece. As a shovel to soft dirt, I hope this framework allows you to dig deeply as scripture renews our mind towards a new life in Christ Jesus.
I am blessed to have good friends that follow Jesus. And I have the honor of having one of my friends write the Saturday prayer for Romans 3. Community is important for the Brethren of the Feast, because it allows us to see God and his scripture through other’s eyes. So I want to thank my good friend Lucas Holt @pelicanpoetry for our long coffee breaks as we think through life and scripture. I am honored. Thanks, JP
25 God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement,[i] through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished— 26 he did it to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus. Romans 3
Lord Jesus, Righteous Judge,
You, O God, are perfect in all Your ways. Righteousness and justice are the foundations of Your throne.
Before you, O Lord, the whole world stands. Before You, I stand.
I praise You, for although I am a sinner and guilty of sinning against You and Your holy law, yet by Your grace I am justified. Thank you, O Lord, for this indescribable gift!
Sacred Heart of Jesus, may your blood, by which I am redeemed, flow into my whole being—heart, soul, and mind—and cleanse me and transform me into thy likeness. And may your blood, O God, which wipes away the sins of the entire world, cover the face of the earth, just as the waters did in the days of Noah, so that all nations would be enveloped in your mercy and come to know You and praise Your holy name.
Help us to persevere in our faith till the end, trusting in Your faithfulness, that we may obtain the eternal rewards you have promised.
Jesus, I place my trust in You!
Amen.
Brethren of the Feast 