Romans 1:5-10 (NIV) 5 Through him we received grace and apostleship to call all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith for his name’s sake. 6 And you also are among those Gentiles who are called to belong to Jesus Christ. 7 To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be his holy people: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world. 9 God, whom I serve in my spirit in preaching the gospel of his Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you 10 in my prayers at all times; and I pray that now at last by God’s will the way may be opened for me to come to you.
In November, residents of Grindavik, Iceland, were told to evacuate their homes as the ground began to tremble and cracks split the streets. Scientists warned that volcanic eruptions were imminent. Though the sky was clear, the townspeople left everything behind, trusting the warnings even when they could not see the danger.
Faith often works the same way. We act on God’s word even before we see the fulfillment. Like the people of Grindavik trusting geologists, we trust our Creator, who sees what we cannot.
Paul writes to the believers in Rome as one who has never met them face to face, yet his words overflow with gratitude and longing. He reminds them—and us—that we are “called to belong to Jesus Christ.” This is not a casual invitation; it is the central truth of our lives. We are His.
Notice the order in verse 5: we have received grace and apostleship. Grace comes first—our standing with God is not earned. Apostleship, or our calling to serve, flows out of that grace. Faith leads to obedience, not the other way around.
Paul’s heart for the Romans is pastoral: he prays for them, thanks God for their faith, and longs to be with them. Even when separated, the bond in Christ remains strong. We, too, can carry others in prayer, lifting them up daily, even if miles or years have kept us apart.
Living It Out
- Remember your identity — you belong to Christ.
- Let grace lead — your service is a response to His love, not a way to earn it.
- Keep your spiritual family in prayer — Lift family, friends, church members, and our community.
Just as Paul prayed for the Romans without ceasing, we can do the same for our loved ones and church family. And like the people of Grindavik who acted on unseen warnings, we live by faith,
Love God, Love People
Pastor Nate