Reflection:

The latter verses in Romans 8 are infamous for being misused when people are suffering, trotted out as a proof-text to prove the goodness within the evil of this world.

However, while these verses do not nullify suffering, they do reshape the picture of bleakness.

For Jesus Christ put himself into the arms of death and suffering, and in doing so, reshaped life itself. And he did that as a promise—a promise of his love for you.

What do you believe can separate you from the love of God? What can actually separate you from the love of God?

Prayer:

Dear Lord, neither death nor life, neither angels nor rulers, neither suffering now nor suffering to come, not anything in creation can wrest me from your love. Help me to know that today.

In the name of Jesus,

Amen.