From judgement to compassion

In Romans 15:5-13 Paul writes, "May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ."

These verses remind us that unity in Christ is both our calling and our strength.

Fasting is a time of surrender, an opportunity to set aside distractions and focus on drawing closer to Jesus. It is also a time to remember that we are all on a journey of faith. Romans 3:23 reminds us that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” None of us are perfect, and it is only what Jesus did on the cross that means we have forgiveness. This truth humbles us and calls us to extend grace to one another. We can often be tempted to judge others or ourselves for falling short, let us choose instead to encourage and support one another.

Paul’s encouragement to welcome one another as Christ welcomed us (Romans 15:7) shifts our perspective from judgment to compassion. Our differences—in background, opinions, or struggles—become less significant when we focus on our shared mission: reaching the lost and growing in intimacy with Jesus. These goals require us to lift one another up rather than tear each other down, offering the same grace and love that we have received from Christ.

This unity is not passive but active. It calls us to support one another in prayer, to speak words of encouragement, and to share the burdens of those who are weak (Romans 15:1). As we fast and seek God’s presence, let us also seek to build relationships with one another. By doing so, we reflect God’s heart to the world around us.

Romans 15:13 captures the hope that sustains us: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

During this time of fasting, let this hope guide us. Let it remind us that intimacy with Jesus and reaching the lost are greater than our differences. Together, with one mind and one voice, we can glorify God and shine His light to the world. Let us also apologise to one another where we have failed to protect unity, remembering that we have all fallen short. This common goal calls us to work harder together, ensuring that unity remains our priority as we move forward in faith and love.

-   Tom Milne