A NEW YEAR, A NEW LOOK
Today's reading: Romans 1-2

"For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes--Jews first and also Gentiles." Romans 1:16 NLT

An old 'favorite' on the first day of the New Year? One of 'those' everyone knows by heart--Christian and non-Christian? One of the 'black and whites' in a world scribbled about with gray?

Or is it?

A second glance this morning and a quick browse through the thesaurus proves to me I have a lot to learn this year--maybe you do, too.

Some synonyms of the word 'ashamed' are blushing, embarrassed, sheepish, remorseful and apologetic.

Not to change God's Word, but how does the verse size up in your eyes (and in your heart) when you substitute one its similar meanings?

Do I blush when God's Word is spoken of in public? Am I taken aback by its mis-use, or do I know it well enough to know when its being rightly used or not?

Am I as flamboyant about sharing the Gospel with others as I am my political views or my opinion on the latest athletes new contract? Am I sheepish when it comes to speaking His truth in matters of right and wrong?

Does remorse keep me from speaking the truth from the Bible? Will I sound 'preachy'? Might I step on toes, be intolerant of another's belief system?

Ashamed of the Gospel is one thing, but this morning it's been revealed to me that it goes much, much deeper than a feeling or disgrace or embarrassment on my part.

What a thought to begin the New Year with!