"Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ." Romans 10:17 NIV
As a kid, my family used to play games; Monopoly, Sorry, Checkers, Parcheesi, and of course Dominoes. The fun thing about dominoes was you could stack them up on end in a line and watch the ripple effect as they fell. I still enjoy watching that happen.
We see this same thing happen in our lives. The result of one choice leads to a result -- cause and effect. Of course, this can be both good and bad, depending on the choices we make. If we make the right choice, the likelihood is something good will follow. Sadly, the reverse is also true.
Today's passage talks about a spiritual sequence. To experience faith, we must hear the message. It is impossible to have confidence in something without first knowing. For example, you could not believe that a car could take you to where you need to go without first knowing what a car can do. This text’s implicit invitation is to share the Good News of Christ’s message with the world. Just as someone shared this news with us, we, in turn, must share with others, who will also share with others, and on and on -- causing a ripple effect of the gospel. Each of us simply needs to touch that lead domino to make it happen.
Precious and loving God, we give thanks for the gospel of Jesus Christ. We are grateful for the faith that follows in hearing and accepting. We hear the invitation to witness, to share this good news with others. Please help us today to start that positive chain reaction in the world. Let everything we say and do be for your glory. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
Blessings!
Pastor Tim
Invitation: How can I be a witness today?
