Proper 13: Epistle, Romans 9:1-5                                      

Romans 9:1-5

Just a brief comment here from Romans chapter nine. Following on the heels of the beautiful invitations we read in Isaiah this week, here we have pain from the rejection of such a call. Paul here is dealing with “my countrymen according to the flesh” (v. 3), those of the seed of Abraham, Israelites. What I want us to consider is the depth of Paul’s hope that those of his blood would receive the amazing gifts God has so freely given them. And in the context of who they are, it is the “frosting on the cake” of centuries of waiting, watching, and praying.

They missed it. They missed Him. The hardened heart of fallen men and women is an obstacle impossible to move. Impossible, that is, apart from the work of God Himself. To refuse Him means loss of an incalculable sort. That’s what Paul is grieving here. With what Isaiah offered centuries before has come to His people. And they in large part have said no.

Question: do our hearts break for those we love who say “no” to the Father’s invitation? Paul was willing to be damned for their sakes if they would only receive God’s gift. Reading this always makes me tremble for two reasons. First, for those who reject the gospel. And second, for realizing my heart often isn’t moved by that rejection.

Lord, have mercy. On us all. Amen!