Anchor Devotional

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Celebrate Each Relationship

“Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother, who has been a mother to me, too.” Romans 16:13

Not a lot is known about Paul’s relationships with members of his biological family. As a Pharisee, he would have come from a reputable background of power and wealth. He was well-educated. There would have been expectations on him to be successful in life. Imagine what it may have been like to depart from that Jewish culture to become a Christ follower.

But from Scripture, we learn that he was not lacking for meaningful connectedness. In this passage alone, he mentions by name 28 individuals to whom he is sending personal greetings. The chapter continues with more references to those dear to him. And we know from other letters of his in the Bible that he had many close friends, among them Timothy his “true son in the faith” (1 Timothy 1:2).

Who are the significant people God has placed in your life? Have you told them that you value them? It’s a great encouragement to express love and appreciation to the spiritual mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, and even cousins that God has given to each of us as members of the household of faith.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS
Romans 16:1-16

INSIGHT
“I’m so glad I’m a part of the Family of God;/I’ve been washed in the fountain, cleansed by His blood!” (Bill and Gloria Gaither, 1970)

THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR
Isaiah 1-2
Psalm 73
John 13

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