You are not alone

February 14, 2008
Thursday

Romans 16

Last week I mentioned that there were only five people on our tour and there was concern as to whether or not we would mix well. As God would have it, each of us brought different gifts to the trip and we soon realized that things were going to be fine. The other three had traveled to many different areas of the world on tours, bringing experience as well as answers to our questions. We all were of the Christian faith so when we arrived at a location I could read the pertinent scripture in the comfort of knowing I was not alone. Lisa brought her openness to adventure as well as her patience along the way. The driver and the guide were everything we could have hoped for.
As we read through Romans 16, we find that it’s a list of those for whom Paul has met along the way and to whom he sends his regards. Though we think of Paul as an individual moving through that part of the world sharing the Gospel, the reality is that he met many folks along the way who greeted him, fed him, nourished him, provided him shelter, shared their knowledge of the area...you get the idea. These are people with whom God surrounded Paul in his journey.
Who has God placed around you? Who are those people who listen, assist, love, nourish, and guide you? As we think about our individual Lenten journeys, the reality is that God has surrounded us with people like Herodion, Mary, Tryphena, and others. In our prayers today, may we give thanks for each one of them. Maybe we could even send them a note, as did Paul, and great them.