Greet one another - Romans 16:1-16

Take a quick read of Romans 16:1-16.

What does it mean to greet someone in the name of the Lord?

. . . So that you may welcome her in the Lord as is fitting for the saints, and help her in whatever she may require from you . . .

Can you imagine being introduced this way?

"Hey, I want you to meet my friend, Phoebe. She is a servant of the church. Please welcome her in the way Jesus welcomed, in a way that is special and generous, forgiving and patient, hopeful and loving. Please greet her with all the attention you would offer a famous saint, like Mother Teresa, or a dear beloved friend. Give her all that she needs and provide for her every thing she wishes from you."

Paul goes on to list many others, asking, greet these as well. He seems to have gotten carried away . . . "Oh, and I want you to greet this person too, and this one because he has done wonderful things in the name of the Lord, and she has worked so hard, and he is one of our family, and she . . . please greet them all! They are amazing wonderful people!" Can't you just hear his excitement as he recites the names of those he wants to acknowledge. His excitement is contagious, as is his appreciation.

How special those named must feel! It is so important to recognize how valuable people are in our lives and to acknowledge them among others -our co-workers, staff members, children, spouses and neighbors. Let us find ways to praise their hard work and to tell others how significant they are to us.

Today's challenge . . . to greet those we meet as the Lord would greet - offering help in whatever others require of us (including those who work along side us each day and those who come to us as strangers).

Challenge # 2 . . . find a way to appreciate those around us, bring attention to that appreciation, and with an excitement that is contagious, encourage others to offer a hospitality worthy of the saints.