So you thought Romans was just too theological!

Paul's letters to the Romans has some pretty deep and theologically challenging passages. Grace and works., why the Jewish people of his time of which Paul was one didn't respond as he hoped to the gospel message, just to name two. So it's a book that sometimes scares people off from reading it.

But right in the middle of the book Paul moves from the complicated arguments and theological struggles to a beautiful series of verses that sound more like Proverbs.

Romans 12:9-21 Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord." No, "if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on their heads." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Simple, straight forward, powerful kingdom ethics. Live life this way and the ripple effect will be tremendous. A high calling for which I know I need abundant grace to even come close.

Take one of these phrases and try living it for a week and see how often it is a struggle but also notice how much difference it makes in your life and the lives of others. Lent is approaching. This makes a great daily set of verses as a companion to take to Jerusalem and the cross.