November 3, 2026 - Romans 9-10

The apostle Paul, in chapter 9, reminds that we have this new life only because God has decided to give it to us.  It is not by works or effort, but by his gracious choice, that we are saved from sin and unto life.  What a joy to be added into the household of Israel as God's children!  And Paul seems, also, hopeful that many from biological Israel will eventually be saved.  Though his countrymen had stumbled over their own Messiah, Paul possessed a great hope that many of them would be saved:  “They have stumbled over the stumbling stone, as it is written, ‘Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense; and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.’  Brothers, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved” (9:32-10:1).  A good reminder, that we should pray for the salvation of Israel. 

Proclaim to ev’ry people, tongue, and nation

that God, in whom they live and move, is love;

tell how He stooped to save His lost creation,

and died on earth that we might live above.

Publish glad tidings, tidings of peace;

tidings of Jesus, redemption, and release.

Give of thy sons to bear the message glorious;

give of thy wealth to speed them on their way;

pour out thy soul for them in prayer victorious;

O Zion, haste to bring the brighter day.   -- Mary Ann Thomson (1868)