I haven’t been able to get this verse out of my mind for the last 2 weeks. It is sandwiched between the two theological towers of suffering and sovereignty, and acts as an emotional connecting bridge of sorts. It’s a verse that peels back three layers of an authentic Christ follower.
Layer 1: those who love God
Oh that this not be assumed. Far too many use God like they buy an updated Mercedes. It is far more about other’s impression of them than any form of intimate submission to a HOLY, and TERRIFYING God. Love of God that mirrors His love of us while impossible, is commanded and expected. Only to be summed up with a “what is impossible with man is possible with God” (Mark 10).
Layer 2: being that person that knows all things are working together for good
One glance around makes us question that we can be included as “one of these people”. The world is crumbling around us. It is hope inducing seeing Paul’s affirmation of this in the rest of chapter 8. In three different places he talks about the groaning going on in anticipation of what’s to come rather than what is. He acknowledges life stinks. So how do we see good in any of this? (echo…anyone have an answer?) . The only answer I can muster is because of the grand extent that we trust him, we have hope. Hope that comes as the last stanza of suffering, endurance, and character (Romans 5:3-4). And this Hope brings the fruit of life: goodness.
Layer 3: those called according to His purposes
Here is where the scary questions come into play. If there is a makeshift, “casual” believer who does not deeply love, and can find no hope in goodness, are they included in the purposes? Are they really called? The scariest thing I can imagine in light of an omniscient (all knowing) God is simply existing. Think of it…that we would be so sin calloused that God would all but disclude us from what he is doing. Not only would we not be experiencing him, savoring him, worshiping him…we would barely be apart of acknowledging him.
Let us be men and woman that live with a Holy dread over our being “called according to His purpose.” And not just be dreaders, but joiners of the kingdom movement that is already at play.
~amen?
~Deep thoughts by a shallow guy~
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