We belong to the Lord

For we don’t live for ourselves or die for ourselves. If we live, it’s to honor the Lord. And if we die, it’s to honor the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord. (Romans 14:7-8)

Too many people think they live to do what they want, when they want, with whatever they want, all the while neglecting to see how their actions will affect others. God's words to us are to be continually aware of how our behavior affects those around us - they might not understand our 'liberty' in Christ, or they might fall into some temptation because of some weakness in their own character that is 'spurred on' by our behavior. Either way, we owe it to each other to be aware of how our actions will always affect others.

Paul was speaking to the church at Rome in this passage, but these words come after a long discussion as to what foods were 'okay' to eat, which 'holy day' was the 'right one', and similar types of issues. You see, the early church wasn't much different than we are today. There was division and lots of 'criticism' over the 'practices' of some, while the 'liberties' of others were causing just as much dissension in the ranks. No matter where we look throughout history, there has always been some 'division' as to how to worship, who to worship, when to worship, and even what 'worship' really entails. 

Wouldn't it be great if we could all get on the same page? Does it really make a difference if we come together to worship on Saturday, Sunday, or a Wednesday for that matter? Paul said it does not matter. What matters is the heart. Who we worship should always be Christ - no other, since scripture clearly declares there is no other mediator between God the Father and mankind. Where we worship doesn't matter, because a forest trail can be a place of worship as well as the grand cathedrals of old. Do we use instruments or not, sing loudly, or worship quietly? It all comes back to the heart.

If the heart is right with God, the actions that stem from the heart will be 'right', as well. This may be hard for some to understand, but God can use any 'setting' or 'situation' to bring a heart to a place of salvation. Why couldn't he use an open field, palatial cathedral, or simple wood beamed barn to become the place of worship? The 'place' he desires most is the center of our lives - our hearts. Just sayin!