23 October 2023
No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, being fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. Therefore his faith ‘was reckoned to him as righteousness.’ Now the words, ‘it was reckoned to him’, were written not for his sake alone, but for ours also.
From Romans 4:20-25 NRSV
In today’s reading we hear about the gift of righteousness as something that is not earned but freely given to those who place their trust in God and the promise of Christ’s resurrection. Paul first refers to the righteousness of Abraham. Despite the seeming hopelessness of his situation, Abraham continued to put his trust in God’s promise. We are assured that the promise of salvation is for us too. Perhaps at this time when our world seems to be divided by religious beliefs, we can remember that Muslims also are our brothers and sisters since they too regard Ibrahim (Abraham) as their father in faith.
- How does it feel to know that salvation is not something we have to earn but is freely given to those who place their trust in God?
- What can we do to grow stronger in our faith?
Reflect on the promise God makes to you and on how you can keep faith in this even at times when life is difficult.
